Retail NZ has welcomed the formation of an action group to address the growing illicit tobacco in New Zealand.

Retail NZ CEO Carolyn Young identified the illicit market as an ‘immediate concern’, citing a recent report titled Time is Running Out to Quit Illicit Tobacco. 

The report highlighted how quickly organised crime groups gained a foothold in Australia, where estimates suggest illegal tobacco may account for 50 per cent to 75 per cent of the market share.

“We can’t just watch and wait for the same to happen here in Aotearoa, and we welcome the government taking this action of ensuring all the agencies involved in combatting the illicit tobacco market can work together on stamping it out here,” 

“We would like further investment in customs to enhance our border protections and intelligence, tougher penalties for those caught importing and selling illicit tobacco, and banning online tobacco sales,” she said.

“We also believe establishing an independent panel of experts to consider what tobacco controls, enforcement tools, and enhanced public messaging could make a meaningful difference in this space would be hugely beneficial in finding a way to stamp out the market for good.” 

“Strong action now is important to ensure we can protect New Zealand’s public health objectives and fight against organised crime,” said Young.