EU anti-fraud office fight against tobacco smuggling

Brussels (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – European Anti-Fraud office and EU partners strengthen measures against tobacco smuggling.

The European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF), in collaboration with the Irish Revenue – Tax and Customs, arranged the annual OLAF Tobacco Conference from 8-10 October in Dublin, Ireland. The occasion brought together around 90 representatives from critical stakeholders including customs and national police authorities of EU member states and third countries, the World Customs Organization, EUROPOL and spokespeople from the industry.

How is Olaf addressing the rise of tobacco smuggling?

According to the press of the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF), participants examined strategies and the latest trends and exchanged best practices to improve international cooperation in fighting tobacco smuggling. 

What new tobacco products pose challenges to regulators?

During the conference, OLAF offered an overview of developments in water pipe tobacco and new-generation tobacco products. These new products, which include tobacco bags, heated tobacco products and electronic cigarettes, have earned popularity among consumers in recent years, particularly young consumers, as options for traditional cigarettes. This trend shows a unique challenge for regulators and enforcement mechanisms. 

How does the illicit tobacco trade impact EU economies?

The illicit tobacco trade poses a substantial threat to public health, deprives the EU and member states of substantial tax gains and fuels organised crime networks. It damages anti-smoking and public health campaigns and breaks the strict rules that the EU and Member States have on manufacturing, issuance and sale. In 2023, international operations concerning the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) led to the outbreak of 616 million illicit cigarettes, 140 tonnes of raw tobacco and 6 tonnes of water pipe tobacco, holding an assessed €150 million in revenue loss in the EU.

What were the key outcomes of the Olaf tobacco conference?

It has been said that the global nature of tobacco smuggling needs a united response. The goal of the conference was to construct stronger, more robust and coordinated international actions to combat the illegal tobacco trade, thereby preserving public health, safeguarding revenues, and disrupting the illegal networks involved in smuggling operations.