The recent seizure of nearly 20 tons of illegal cigarettes at Mexico City International Airport (AICM) represents one of the most significant blows against tobacco smuggling in the country.
This Friday, January 9, 2026, Mexican authorities announced they had stopped the flow of merchandise that not only evades millions in taxes but also endangers public health due to its unknown origin and composition.
An operation led by the Mexican Navy, in coordination with AICM Customs, the Ministry of Security and Citizen Protection, the Attorney General’s Office, the Ministry of National Defense, and the National Guard, resulted in the seizure of 19,779.5 kilograms of illegal tobacco.
The seizure was made during the inspection of six shipments from Narita, Japan, between December 22, 2025 and January 3, 2026.
