Illegal tobacco trade shows surge in growth

The trade in illegal tobacco appears to be accelerating significantly with 23 counties recording convictions for unlawful activities last year.

Figures from the Irish Tobacco Manufacturers Advisory Committee show, in 2011, only Sligo, Kildare and Roscommon had no convictions for either smuggling or selling illegal cigarettes. In 2010, 11 counties had no convictions.

The latest figures show Dublin had the most convictions — 32 for smuggling and 18 for selling. In Cork there were 11 convictions, seven for smuggling and four for selling.

Across the rest of the country there were a total of 67 convictions. The average fine for selling illegal cigarettes in 2011 was €2,833 while the average fine for smuggling tobacco was €1,829.

According to ITMAC, one smuggler was fined just €50.

“The statistics may be shocking to most people but it’s not surprising to see a 30% increase in activity from 2010 to 2011,” an ITMAC spokesperson said.

ITMAC, which represents companies making cigarettes, said recent increases to Vat and excise on cigarettes had pushed the cost above €9 for a pack of 20 cigarettes.

“With illegal cigarettes now available on the streets for nearly a third of that price, people are being pushed towards purchasing from the black market,” it said.

“Without restraint on increases and better enforcement the problem will continue to grow.”