Illicit and illegal tobacco products tobacco products

Illicit or illegal tobacco products are imported into Aotearoa without proper permits or taxation. Most illicit or illegal tobacco in Aotearoa comes from China and Korea.

Illegal tobacco is typically sold separately from regular tobacco, including on social media and online marketplaces. It is cheaper than regular tobacco products and may have different packaging or no packaging.

Illicit or illegal tobacco presents health, economic and social risks:

Untaxed and unregulated tobacco products may be of lower quality, and lack health warnings, potentially leading to increased health consequences for consumers.
Illegal tobacco funds organised crime.
Illegal tobacco is more readily available and accessible, particularly to young people and marginalised populations, leading to increased tobacco use and related health problems.

If you know of someone or suspect someone who is dealing or smuggling illegal tobacco, call: