Since December, authorities disrupted nearly 999 tonnes of illegal cigarettes and tobacco across supply chains, including over 35 million sticks intercepted pre‑shore and 786 million illicit cigarettes seized at the border, illustrating a massive crackdown on illicit tobacco.

A dramatic on‑camera moment shows a woman attempting to smuggle a suitcase packed with illegal cigarettes into Australia, prompting ABF officers to inspect the contents.

ABF Assistant Commissioner notes the focus on shipping containers, air cargo, and international travellers suspected of tobacco smuggling, with ongoing collaboration with partner agencies both domestically and internationally.

Post-border operations under Operation Printwall have led to two arrests and the seizure of about 20.6 million illegal cigarettes so far.

Australia’s border force launched Operation Printwall in December 2025 to disrupt illicit tobacco and vaping products entering the country.

The large cumulative seizures underscore the scale of the illicit tobacco trade and the authorities’ aim to stop illicit tobacco offshore, at the border, and domestically, while pressuring criminal operators economically.