Illegal Vape Brands Try to Evade FDA Scrutiny by Posing as “Made in the USA”
A Reuters investigation found that, as US enforcement against unlicensed products—especially those linked to Chinese manufacturers—intensifies, more vape brands are starting to use Made in the USA labels. The report says at least eight new brands claiming
A Reuters investigative report shows that as U.S. regulation of unauthorized products tightens—especially those linked to Chinese manufacturers—more and more vape brands are beginning to label themselves as “Made in the USA.”
The investigation found that since last October, at least eight new brands claiming to be “Made in the USA” have appeared on the market. However, none of these brands has received sales authorization from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). To date, the FDA has approved only a very limited number of vaping products for legal sale.
Trademark filing records reveal that some of these brands still trace their ultimate interests back to mainland China or Hong Kong. Analysts believe this shift in marketing strategy is intended to respond to mounting regulatory pressure from the Trump administration and avoid heightened customs scrutiny amid trade tensions. Critics say the move could mislead consumers and hinder the transition of the illegal vape market toward legalization.
Trade data shows that China remains the main supplier of vaping products to the United States, with exports to the U.S. expected to exceed US$4 billion by 2025. Despite tariff restrictions and enforcement actions, related companies are adapting to the evolving regulatory environment and changing market perceptions by promoting products as “partially made in the USA” or adopting “America-themed” branding strategies.
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