The illicit tobacco market in the UK remains ‘resilient’, a new industry report reveals. The Tobacco Manufacturers’ Association’s Anti-Illicit Trade Survey reveals 71% of smokers surveyed claim to have bought illegal tobacco last year, a reduction from 78% in 2019.
There were reductions across the UK, except for London, where the number of smokers purchasing illicit tobacco is unchanged at 85% from 2019.
The poll shows that 68% of respondents had no issue with buying tobacco that had not had UK tax paid on it from a friend, relative, or shops. If it is viewed as crime, it is viewed as a ‘victimless’ crime, although more smokers are aware that illicit tobacco is a source of funding for organised criminals.
In addition, the survey findings point to a spike in people buying illicit tobacco through social media and websites, with 19% of respondents claiming to have used platforms to purchase and trade illicit tobacco, compared to only 4% before the pandemic.
Rupert Lewis, Director of the TMA said: “There is positive news in this year’s survey findings, with more people reporting illicit tobacco when they were aware of it, and a decline in people purchasing illegal tobacco in every region across the UK with the exception of London.
“However, the 2021 findings still highlight the continued widespread availability of illicit tobacco, as well as the entrenched perception among many consumers that it is ‘acceptable’ to trade or buy illicit tobacco.”
He added: “I believe that government, law enforcement, industry and retail, must double down on our efforts and take the fight to those who bring about such misery through trading and supplying illicit tobacco, and this is why the TMA supports the government in bringing forward new measures to increase sanctions on those who sell or distribute illicit tobacco.”
