Mexico’s vape ban has led to a cartel-controlled black market
Mexico's ban on vapes has inadvertently created a $1.5 billion black market now dominated by powerful cartels.Summary
Mexico’s recent constitutional amendment banning the sale of electronic cigarettes and vapes has resulted in a surge of criminal activity, with cartels seizing control of the $1.5 billion industry. The ban, intended as a public health measure, was implemented without clear legislation, creating a loophole that allowed illicit vapes to continue entering the country. Despite a subsequent law imposing strict penalties, at least seven cartels – including CJNG and the Sinaloa Cartel – are now using the black market to finance operations, including weapons purchases and logistical support, in at least 16 high-risk states. Experts argue the ban was a “political calculus” driven by fear surrounding fentanyl, rather than a sound public health decision, and has ultimately strengthened criminal organizations by providing them with a lucrative, low-priority revenue stream.
(Source：The Week)
