Illicit tobacco is increasingly prevalent in the UK [JTI] and is fast becoming a blight on high streets across the country. Data from JTI found that the illicit sector grew to unprecedented levels in 2024, with 30% of cigarette and 54% of roll-your-own (RYO) tobacco consumption now coming from illegal and other non-duty paid sources [JTI].
The Government’s own illegal tobacco strategy acknowledges the proven link between illegal tobacco and international organised crime groups [GOV.uk], with the proceeds of illicit tobacco sales funding the smuggling of weapons, drugs, and even human beings across the globe. Research shows that illegal tobacco is also costing the UK over £2bn every year in lost tax revenue [GOV.uk], meaning the consequences for the taxpayer are significant.
From a convenience retailer perspective, illegal tobacco puts legitimate retailers at a serious disadvantage and takes footfall and profit away from law-abiding stores.
It costs more than you think
JTI has launched a national campaign calling on the Government to do more to tackle the sale of illegal cigarettes, a trade which funds organised crime gangs and exploitation. The ‘It costs more than you think’ campaign provides retailers and consumers with the tools to report the illicit sale of tobacco and to raise awareness of the impact on local communities.
”Whilst HMRC has seen an increase in reports, many consumers are understandably worried about repercussions if they report these crimes in their area”
Nicky Small, corporate affairs & communications director, JTI
The initiative follows a year-on-year increase of reports to HMRC exposing the sale of illegal tobacco [GOV.uk], and highlights a critical juncture to tackle how the money made is laundered and taken outside the UK, funding further serious crimes [GOV.uk].
As part of the campaign launch, JTI published a landmark new study, comprising a survey [JTI] of 3,000 adults, with three-quarters (77%) concerned about the repercussions if they were to report illicit tobacco in their community to the authorities. Other findings from the study found:
- The majority (69%) of UK adults have heard of or are familiar with illegal tobacco but 2 in 3 (64%) are unsure how to identify it;
- 4 in 5 (81%) believe there is not enough enforcement to stop illegal tobacco sales, yet 1 in 2 (53%) do not believe it is their responsibility to take action;
- Over 90% of consumers are alarmed that illicit tobacco trade is fuelling organised crime and over a third (38%) want stricter enforcement.
Discussing the findings, Nicky Small, corporate affairs & communications director at JTI, says: “This groundbreaking research clearly demonstrates the concerns of consumers around the illicit sale of illegal tobacco and its impact on communities across the UK. Whilst HMRC has seen an increase in reports, many consumers are understandably worried about repercussions if they report these crimes in their area.”
What can retailers do to tackle illicit tobacco?
The It costs more than you think website has a dedicated retailer page, which outlines the risks of selling illicit tobacco, alongside helpful tips on how to spot illegal tobacco products and report stores selling illicit goods. Retailers can also download a letter template to share with their local MP to raise awareness of illicit tobacco in their area and request that action is taken.
How to report illicit tobacco?
If anyone knows of a store that is selling illicit tobacco or vapes, they should report them by calling Trading Standards through the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133 or contact HM Revenue & Customs’ Fraud Hotline (0800 788 887), or Crimestoppers (0800 555 111).
”We are concerned that the illicit tobacco problem will only get worse if the Government proceeds with the proposed generational smoking ban. This will play into the hands of illegal tobacco operators and will negatively impact thousands of small convenience businesses”
Nicky Small, corporate affairs & communications director, JTI
The final word
“This campaign aims to raise awareness of illicit tobacco and give people the reporting tools to fight it, as well as calling on the Government to do more on this critical issue that continues to harm communities in every region across the UK. We hope this campaign will provide valuable support to the retail community, helping them to stay compliant, protect their businesses and crack down on stores selling illicit goods,” states Small.
“We are also concerned that the illicit tobacco problem will only get worse if the Government proceeds with the proposed generational smoking ban. This will play into the hands of illegal tobacco operators and will negatively impact on thousands of small convenience businesses across the UK. The Government needs to acknowledge the scale of the problem, and to crack down on illicit tobacco sales as a priority in the year ahead,” she concludes.
For more information, please visit the campaign website: www.itcostsmorethanyouthink.co.uk
