Illicit trade in tobacco products (smuggling, illicit manufacturing and counterfeiting) is a huge global problem that affects public health, and threatens law and order.

There is evidence that illicit trade in tobacco products is carried out by organized transnational criminal groups, and that money gained from illicit trade in tobacco products is used for other serious criminal enterprises, including terrorist operations.

Eliminating this trade requires global effort to ensure its supply and distribution chain is controlled and effective enforcement strategies are implemented.

For more information see:

• The Facts
• The FCTC Commitments
• The Work of the Conference of the Parties
• The Treaty Text