Archive · 15 Aug 2025
Experts Call for Global Collaboration to Curb Illicit Tobacco Trade
Experts are worried about the growing illegal tobacco market in Southeast Asia.
These cigarettes are cheaper but can be dangerous because they aren't regulated and might contain more harmful substances.
To fix this, experts suggest making taxes fairer, working together across borders, and using technology to track and stop illegal trade.
This will protect people's health and help governments collect the taxes they deserve.
The illicit tobacco market is fueled by its affordability and the lack of effective enforcement, which allows it to thrive and cause problems for both public health and economies.
Experts met in Manila to address the rising illicit tobacco trade in Southeast Asia.
Illicit tobacco undermines public health and government revenues due to affordability and weak enforcement.
Globally, an estimated 500 billion illicit cigarettes are consumed annually, posing significant health risks.
Solutions include tax rationalization, cross-border regulatory harmonization, and technology-led enforcement.
Multiple experts called for coordinated approach to curb the illicit tobacco trade
- Who
- Experts from Southeast Asia and international organizations.
- What
- Experts discussed strategies to combat illicit tobacco trade.
- When
- Recently, at a summit in Manila.
- Where
- Manila, Southeast Asia.
- Why
- To address the escalating threat of illicit tobacco trade that undermines public health and government revenues.
Proponents of Stronger Regulation
Supporters of Reduced Tax & Simplified Laws
Taxation and Enforcement Strategies
Proponents of Stronger Regulation
Advocates for rigorous tax enforcement and harmonized regulatory frameworks across borders.
Supporters of Reduced Tax & Simplified Laws
Focuses on current excessive and complex taxation structures that create profit margins which make smuggling attractive
- Estimated global illicit cigarette consumption
- 500 billion annually
- Estimated percentage of illicit tobacco use globally
- 14-15%
- Illicit cigarettes in the Philippines
- 1 in 5 cigarettes
- Estimated annual excise losses in India
- ₹12,000–13,000 crore (USD 1.5–1.6 billion)