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Over a billion illegal cigarettes were confiscated last year as criminal organizations inundated Britain's black market.
Authorities intercepted 927 million cigarettes alone.
This marks the third consecutive year of increased seizures.
Government statistics indicate 783 million were seized in 2022-23, rising to 888 million the next year.
When total hauls are factored in, 1.19 billion cigarettes — estimated to be worth £496 million — were prevented from reaching the streets of Britain.
High taxes are driving this increase, with illegal packs available for as little as £4.50 — one-third the cost of legal cigarettes.
A Reform MP stated, “If they can’t stop trucks full of cigarettes, what chance do they have of managing the flow of illegal immigration?”
“Instead of safeguarding our country, they’ve taxed citizens into the hands of criminals.”
Britain is now the third-largest consumer of illegal cigarettes in Europe, despite having one of the lowest smoking rates.
A 2024 report by accounting firm KPMG revealed that one in four cigarettes smoked in the UK is illegal.
HMRC acknowledged a loss of £3.1 billion in excise tax in 2024 due to smugglers, counterfeiters, and black-marketeers.
Tobacco accounted for £1.4 billion of this loss, while beer contributed £700 million.
Former Crime Stoppers International chief Shane Britten warned that smuggling routes could also be exploited for other illicit goods associated with serious crime.
He remarked, “Cigarettes could become weapons, narcotics, or even involve human trafficking.
“For crime syndicates, the choice of item is based on a risk versus reward assessment.”
More than a billion illegal cigarettes were seized last year as gangs flooded Britain’s black market.
Trust Up in Smoke
By LEE ANDERSON, Reform MP for Ashfield
IF you need evidence that Labour has lost control of our borders, just look at the trade in illegal cigarettes.
For every suspicious crate intercepted, countless others are making their way into the UK.
If Labour cannot stop container loads of cigarettes, what hope do they have of halting mass immigration?
The Prime Minister’s major initiative to combat criminal gangs is to introduce digital ID cards.
The only thing this will restrict is the freedoms of hardworking British citizens.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors are contributing to the rise in illegal cigarette trade in the UK?
High taxes on legal cigarettes make illicit packs more appealing, with prices significantly lower than legal options.
What are the implications of illegal cigarette smuggling?
Smuggling routes can be utilized for trafficking other illegal goods, which poses a threat to public safety and law enforcement efforts.
