USPS Crackdown: A Major Blow to Unregulated Vape Industry

The U.S. Postal Service has intensified its efforts against distributors of unregulated vapes, a move that poses a significant challenge to the burgeoning industry previously impeding Big Tobacco's sales. USPS targeted New York-based distributor Demand Vape, barring it from utilizing its mailing services after evidence revealed violations of mailing laws provided by New York City's Law Department.

Demand Vape stands accused of shipping vapes lacking FDA authorization and ignoring local flavor bans. While the company contests this revocation, labeling itself as a law-abiding entity, the industry continues to operate in a largely unregulated environment, exacerbated by limited FDA approvals of vaping products. The Postal Service's actions could inadvertently aid tobacco giants like Altria in reclaiming market ground.

Under the current legal framework, the U.S. Postal Service holds restrictive powers in mailing vapes, necessitating adherence to stringent conditions, which many companies fail to meet. With other major carriers also limiting vape logistics, unauthorized market players face increasing logistical and financial hurdles, intensifying the industry's pressure to comply with evolving regulations.

(With inputs from agencies.)