CBP ( U.S. Customs and Border Protection) seized products

[bryano698]

I live in the U.S state of Connecticut. I was wondering if CBP would detain my shipment of tobacco products. It would be shipments from different countries such as China. I'm starting a business in the tobacco industry which I would offer pipes, water pipes etc. I'm afraid it would be considered as "drug paraphernalia" even if it's written that it's for tobacco use only. I know how these products are seen/associated with cannabis which is why I fear running into trouble with CBP. Any tips or advise that can ease my mind? Thank you!

 

[NeilTheCop]

It will likely be seized.
https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/21/863
Telling customs that a bong will only be used for smoking tobacco will have them falling over with laughter.
https://caselaw.findlaw.com/us-6th-circuit/1014310.html

 

[FlyingRon]

Note that in addition, any importation of a "tobacco product" would be detained. The FDA regulates any tobacco products (cigars, cigarettes, pipe and hookah tobaccos, e-cigarette strictly.

Hookahs themselves are a gray area. If you do not properly document them, you can expect them to be seized.
https://www.customsmobile.com/rulings/docview?doc_id=HQ H022179&highlight=9614.00*

 

[bcr229]

Find a reputable customs broker who can give you the full breakdown on importation fees, tariffs, the legal niceties, etc. for bringing in those types of goods and how much they would charge to ensure your stuff is brought in legally (if it even can be). You may find that unless you can pack a shipping container full of stuff to resell that it's not cost-effective.