In Western Australia, the rise of the illicit vape trade has highlighted the law of unintended consequences, with regulators criticized for slow responses despite prior warnings about youth-targeted marketing. Recent efforts to crack down included inspections and seizures, yet illegal sales continue unabated, with minor fines issued to offenders. Health Minister Meredith Hammat has committed to fast-tracking new tobacco regulations, but experts warn these actions are insufficient as vaping-related smoking rates rise. Comprehensive reforms are urgently needed to empower authorities against illegal retailers and deter organized crime in this sector.
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