TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The largest electronic cigarette factory in Taiwan’s history was busted in Taichung, according to a July 23 press release by the National Police Agency.
The First Brigade of the Third Special Police Corps reportedly received information in December 2023 that a criminal group had built a large-scale e-cigarette smuggling factory in a secret location in Taichung. A task force was established with the Taichung City Health Bureau and Criminal Investigation Bureau to investigate the case.
This marks the largest e-cigarette factory uncovered in Taiwan since the Tobacco Harm Control Act was revised and enacted on March 22, 2023, banning e-cigarettes. The operation's market value was NT$140.6 million (US$4.28 million).
It was not until May 22 that investigators closed in on three locations, including in Taichung’s Beitun District and North District. The group reportedly moved the factory several times throughout the investigation.
Over NT$10.15 million (US$308,800) in illegally obtained cash and 940,000 e-cigarette cartridges of brands such as “TROY,” “SP2S,” “LANA,” and "RELX" were seized. Investigators also found more than 13,000 e-liquid atomizers, three large barrels of nicotine, 306 cans of cartridge flavors, and other equipment.
A couple surnamed Zhang (張) and Li (李) were named as primary suspects, along with six Thai migrant workers who overstayed their visas. Investigators believe the suspects illegally imported the nicotine and e-cigarette raw materials from China, and the products were sold on foreign websites.
The suspects could face charges for violating the Pharmaceutical Affairs Act and Tobacco Harm Control Act. They are also suspected of violating Article 41 of the Tax Collection Act and the Money Laundering Prevention Act.
The manufacture, import, sale, and use of e-cigarettes involves a maximum fine of NT$50 million (US$1.53 million). Even regular e-cigarette users can be fined NT$2,000 (US$61) to NT$10,000 (US$304).
