Combatting the Normalization of Illegal Cigarette Purchases in Adults

Jul.09.2024

Research by Japan Tobacco International reveals a normalization of illegal cigarette purchases in countries including the Philippines, France, UK, and Canada.

According to a study conducted by Japan Tobacco International (referred to as JTI), the purchase of illegal cigarettes has become increasingly normalized among adult smokers in the Philippines, as well as in France, the UK, and Canada. Governments and relevant agencies worldwide need to be highly vigilant of this trend and promptly implement effective measures to combat the illegal tobacco market.

Research data shows that approximately 33% of adult smokers in the Philippines are willing to purchase illicit tobacco, while about 43% of surveyed smokers say they are "willing to buy tobacco they know is illegally produced or sold." So far, the government has lost around 7 billion pesos (1.2 billion USD) due to illegal cigarettes and e-cigarette products.

Japan Tobacco International (JTI) has stated that they will continue their efforts to combat illegal tobacco trade. They plan to closely collaborate with relevant organizations worldwide and actively educate the public about the dangers of illicit cigarettes. JTI also aims to gain more support and assistance from governments and relevant agencies in order to collectively combat the illegal tobacco market and keep adult smokers around the world away from illegal cigarettes.

References:

[1] JTI: One third of Filipino smokers accept illicit cigarettes

Also Read:

[1] DTI to Reduce SRP Monitoring List, Suspend E-cigarette Sales

[2] Government struggles with loss of revenue from illegal e-cigarette sales

[3] Joint Efforts to Combat Illegal E-cigarette Products in Philippines

#Europe #Traditional tobacco #France #Public opinion.

We welcome news tips, article submissions, interview requests, or comments on this piece.

Please contact us at info@2firsts.com, or reach out to Alan Zhao, CEO of 2Firsts, on LinkedIn

Notice

1. This article is intended solely for professional research purposes related to industry, technology, and policy. Any references to brands or products are made purely for objective description and do not constitute any form of endorsement, recommendation, or promotion by 2Firsts.

2. The use of nicotine-containing products — including, but not limited to, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, nicotine pouchand heated tobacco products — carries significant health risks. Users are responsible for complying with all applicable laws and regulations in their respective jurisdictions.

3. This article is not intended to serve as the basis for any investment decisions or financial advice. 2Firsts assumes no direct or indirect liability for any inaccuracies or errors in the content.

4. Access to this article is strictly prohibited for individuals below the legal age in their jurisdiction.

Copyright

This article is either an original work created by 2Firsts or a reproduction from third-party sources with proper attribution. All copyrights and usage rights belong to 2Firsts or the original content provider. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or any other form of unauthorized use by any individual or organization is strictly prohibited. Violators will be held legally accountable.

For copyright-related inquiries, please contact: info@2firsts.com

AI Assistance Disclaimer

This article may have been enhanced using AI tools to improve translation and editorial efficiency. However, due to technical limitations, inaccuracies may occur. Readers are encouraged to refer to the cited sources for the most accurate information.

We welcome any corrections or feedback. Please contact us at: info@2firsts.com

Ispire and IKE Tech Welcome FDA Enforcement Boost, Highlight Need for Tech-Based Controls

Ispire Technology and IKE Tech issued statements after the U.S. FDA received Congressional funding and directives to strengthen enforcement against illicit vaping products. The companies emphasized updated guidance, multi-agency coordination and the role of blockchain and age-verification technologies in preventing illegal imports and protecting youth.

Nov.20

Philippine DOH Calls for Nationwide Vape Ban Amid Surging Youth Use

The Philippine Department of Health (DOH) has warned that youth vaping has reached alarming levels. Health Secretary Ted Herbosa stressed that despite regulations limiting vaping to adults aged 18 and above, minors—many in school uniforms—are frequently seen using vape devices. Criticizing the industry’s youth-targeted marketing tactics, Herbosa said the government should consider a nationwide total ban on vape products.

Nov.24 by 2FIRSTS.ai

2Firsts Research | ZYN Launches Limited-Edition Coffee Flavours and Can Engraving Service at Stockholm Arlanda Airport

2Firsts observed that ZYN has introduced limited-edition coffee flavours and an on-site can engraving service in the duty-free zone at Stockholm Arlanda Airport, alongside the rollout of its upgraded packaging and independent core-shelf displays, forming a complete product presentation and consumer experience system.

Nov.17 by 2FIRSTS.ai

UK Launches Call for Evidence to Shape New Tobacco and Vapes Regulations

The UK's Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has launched an eight-week comprehensive call for evidence to inform new regulations under the forthcoming Tobacco and Vapes Bill, with a deadline of December 3, 2025. The initiative aims to systematically gather evidence on vape flavors, ingredients, nicotine levels, and product design, as well as proposals for an omnichannel retail licensing scheme for tobacco and vapes and a new product registration system.