Efforts to curb illegal tobacco trade could unlock substantial tax gains for governments, with estimates around 47.4 billion dollars annually in potential revenue. This figure comes from a World Health Organization briefing cited by TASS, highlighting the global monetary impact of illicit activity in the tobacco sector.
Current estimates suggest illicit trade accounts for roughly 11% of the worldwide tobacco market, underscoring the scope of the challenge and the opportunity for reform.
At the third session of the Meeting of the Parties to the Protocol on the Suppression of Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products, held February 12–14 in Panama, delegates addressed key steps needed to enforce the Protocol and to secure financing for health initiatives tied to tobacco control. The WHO projects that ending illicit trade would add about 47.4 billion dollars to global tax revenues each year, a figure echoed in session discussions and official statements.
The gathering adopted the Panama Declaration, urging governments to intensify efforts against illegal tobacco activity and to resist pressure from the tobacco industry. The head of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control secretariat emphasized the importance of decisions aimed at strengthening tobacco traceability systems and advancing related research.
Since its entry into force in 2018, the protocol has pursued a coordinated, cross-border approach to eradicate illegal tobacco sales through collaboration among nations. Notably, Russia has not yet become a party to the agreement.
In related policy news, health authorities have explored biometric approaches for regulating the sale of tobacco and alcohol. The idea is to improve age verification and purchase authenticity through secure identification methods, potentially reducing underage access and illicit distribution.
Earlier, some developments involved repurposing tobacco facilities for other uses, including research into pheromones used to manage moth populations in agricultural settings. These discussions reflect a broader trend in tobacco control toward supply-chain integrity and innovative, science-based interventions.
Overall, the focus remains on closing loopholes, enhancing enforcement, and investing in health programs that can withstand the pressures from vested interests. By aligning national policies with international standards, governments can safeguard public health while boosting legitimate tax revenue and economic resilience.