Six Chinese nationals have been charged with importing 2.5 million illegal cigarettes and laundering at least $11 million of dirty money in just six months.

The four men and two women were arrested at Templestowe in Melbourne's east on Monday as federal police and border force officers raided a warehouse about 20km away.

The men have been charged with smuggling tobacco and dealing with the proceeds of crime, and face up to 30 years behind bars if found guilty.

Six Chinese nationals have been charged with importing 2.5 million illegal cigarettes and laundering at least $11 million of dirty money in just six months. (Nine)

Authorities began tracking the Chinese nationals earlier this year after identifying an illegal tobacco importation network. (Nine)

The women have been charged with proceeds of crime offences and could be jailed for a maximum of 20 years.

Authorities began tracking the Chinese nationals earlier this year after identifying an illegal tobacco importation network.

Police will allege they then identified the key operators of a syndicate laundering dirty money for Australian-based criminals.

The four men and two women were arrested at Templestowe in Melbourne's east on Monday. (Nine)

The men arrested could face up to 30 years jail if found guilty. (Nine)

Law Enforcement Minister Angus Taylor said the scale of the alleged smuggling syndicate was extremely significant. (Nine)

Officers then enlisted the help of Chinese customs and anti-smuggling officials to bring the operation to a head.

Law Enforcement Minister Angus Taylor said the scale of the alleged smuggling syndicate was extremely significant, with the illicit tobacco alone worth about $1.75 million in evaded taxes.

"This operation highlights the significant links between illicit tobacco and organised crime," Mr Taylor said today.

"Those who seek to exploit the Australian economy for their own personal gain should be warned the Turnbull government is continuously working to thwart their efforts."