Reinforcing its commitment towards illicit tobacco trade prevention, Philip Morris International’s (PMI) India affiliate, IPM India emphasized the need for government-to-government collaboration & sharing intelligence on transnational networks to stop illicit tobacco trade, at a recently concluded industry event. India has witnessed a significant rise in illicit tobacco trade in recent years which is anticipated to grow significantly. The Tobacco Institute of India (TII) highlights that the illegal cigarette trade, which includes internationally smuggled and locally manufactured tax-evaded cigarettes, now accounts for nearly one-fourth of the cigarette industry in India.
Navaneel Kar, Managing Director, IPM India said, “Smuggling routes for counterfeit and contraband products exist worldwide, making this issue not merely a domestic but a transnational problem that demands a transnational solution. As per intelligence reports, India is recognized as an origin, transshipment, and destination country for the flow of illegal cigarettes.”
A holistic approach that complements tough penalties and strong law enforcement with awareness and education campaigns about the real-life impact of illicit tobacco trade, a predictable fiscal and regulatory environment where adult smokers are not being driven to the black market, and coordinated and committed public-private partnerships are vital to eradicate illicit tobacco trade.
+ There are no comments
Add yours