The Federal Government has banned the importation of tablet presses used to manufacture illicit drugs.

The ban comes into force on March 1 and will attract a fine of $110,000.

Legitimate users must apply for approval from the attorney-general to import the machines.

Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O'Connor says the ban will help stop the manufacture of illegal drugs.

"This is one way we can reduce the distribution of drugs, by removing this element from the use of organised criminals," Mr O'Connor said.