A problem without borders
The independent 2022 KPMG annual study on illicit cigarette consumption in the EU, U.K., Norway, Switzerland, Moldova, and Ukraine has revealed alarming levels of counterfeit cigarettes within the EU, with organized criminal groups continuing to set up illicit production facilities within its borders, mainly targeting Western European, high-priced markets such as France. “Fake cigarettes are being manufactured, distributed, sold, and consumed in countries within the EU, undermining efforts to reduce and eliminate cigarette smoking—and public health goals altogether,” said Gregoire Verdeaux, Senior Vice President, External Affairs, PMI*.
However, the illegal cigarette trade is not confined within the EU’s borders. In fact, illicit cigarettes continue to enter from outside the regional bloc. That’s why concerted action within the EU can have a global impact. We’re committed to encouraging open dialogue about the most effective ways to combat illicit trade in tobacco products by involving manufacturers, suppliers of key components, technology providers, customs authorities, and other law-enforcement agencies.
We strongly support the objectives and principles of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control’s (FCTC’s) Protocol to Eliminate Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products (“the Protocol”) and are encouraged by the growing number of countries joining this international treaty. We are convinced that the FCTC Protocol will help the EU gain the upper hand in fighting the black market in tobacco products and will pave the way for controls in tracking and tracing, licensing, and due diligence.
Illicit cigarette consumption in the EU, U.K., Norway, Switzerland, Moldova, and Ukraine in 2022
(Click on a country or use the magnifying glass to see figures from each country)