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101 Smuggling in India Report 2024-25

Case 6: e-cigareĴe smuggling from China
foiled at Kolkata port

In September 2024, DRI intercepted 4 containers
at Kolkata seaport containing miscellaneous plastic
goods. 82,010 e-cigarettes were recovered from
these four containers that originated in China.

Smuggling of Cosmetics & Beauty Products:

A Growing Concern

The illegal trade of cosmetics and beauty products into India, primarily from
China, Thailand, and the UAE, has surged due to high demand for international
brands. Smugglers evade duties and inspections using under-invoicing, misdecla-
ration, and hidden consignment tactics.

This influx poses a severe public health risk as these products, which potentially
contain hazardous, allergenic, or expired ingredients, often fail to meet Indian
quality and safety standards regulated by Central Drugs Standard Control Orga-
nization (CDSCO). The illicit trade also damages the legitimate domestic market
and authorized distributors.

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