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Two illicit tobacco stores in Sydney’s North Shore have been shut down as the state government’s crackdown on the costly industry begins.

Health Minister Ryan Park announced this morning that two St Leonards stores have been shuttered under new governmental powers targeting outlets suspected of selling illegal tobacco and vaping products.

A notice displayed on the storefront, as seen in a photo shared with 9news.com.au, indicates that the closure will remain in effect until February 2, 2026.

A notice on the front of a St Leonards, Sydney tobacco store after its closure by the NSW government. It is suspected of being involved in the trade of illicit tobacco. — A notice on the front of one of the tobacco stores announcing its closure under the government’s orders. (Supplied)

Government inspectors confiscated nearly 4,000 illicit cigarettes and 224 illegal vaping devices during their raids on the two shops, leading to an immediate closure order.

This initial closure period spans 90 days; however, if further investigations uncover more extensive violations, a local court can extend the shutdown for up to a year.

Minister Park suggested that this action marks the beginning of a comprehensive initiative aimed at curbing the illegal tobacco trade across Sydney.

“We have begun raiding and temporarily shutting down a number of shopfronts suspected of not complying with our tough new tobacco and vaping laws,” he said.

“This will take some time as we ramp up our closure activities, but this is just the beginning. More will follow in the coming days, weeks and months.”

As well as targeted raids on stores involved in the illicit tobacco trade, greater fines and penalties will now be given to people and companies who fall foul of the law.

A lot of cigarettes. — The New South Wales Government is attempting to crackdown on the illicit tobacco trade.` (Getty)

Fines have now increased to a maximum of $660,000 for individuals and $880,000 for a corporation if caught selling tobacco without a licence.

For those found to be in commercial possession of illicit tobacco, the fine could reach $1.54 million, or an individual could face up to seven years imprisonment.

Chief Health Officer Kerry Chant insists the measures are meant to protect the health and safety of people in New South Wales.

“Tobacco use remains one of the leading causes of preventable death and disease in our community,” she said.

“The new closure powers are another key tool to ensure we act swiftly and gain stronger oversight of the illicit tobacco and illegal trade to help protect public health.”