USPS Blocks Shipping of Multi-Billion Dollar Illicit Vape Industry, Boosting Big Tobacco; Aurora Targets Gray Market Products

The U.S. Postal Service has initiated a crackdown on distributors of unregulated vaping products by blocking their use of postal services for business shipments, according to letters reviewed by Reuters. This enforcement action targets a multi-billion dollar illicit vape market that has impacted the sales of major tobacco companies. The move by USPS is seen as a boost for Big Tobacco firms such as Altria Group Inc. and British American Tobacco, which have faced competition from the unregulated vape sector. Separately, local authorities in Aurora are preparing to crack down on 'gray market' products, including nitrous oxide, sold at vape shops and corner stores.