Overview
- The Humo, vapeo y poder report released on Nov. 25 estimates the illicit vape and tobacco trade generates 15–20 billion pesos a year for criminal groups.
- At least seven organizations—CJNG, Sinaloa factions tied to Los Chapitos, Nueva Familia Michoacana, Cártel del Golfo, Cártel del Noreste, Cárteles Unidos and La Unión Tepito—compete for control across the country.
- Supply chains rely on clandestine imports from Asia, repackaging, digital sales and street networks that recruit minors in schools and open-air markets.
- Investigators cite CJNG’s clandestine factories and experimentation with transgenic tobacco, as well as repurposed routes to Texas and other U.S. crossings for contraband flow.
- Retail extortion schemes use barcode-marked packs linked to a façade distributor to track shop sales, with some cartel-branded boxes reportedly near 150 pesos and profits financing weapons and logistics in at least 16 high-risk states.