Home / Health / Illicit Cigarettes Double as Costs Rise
Illicit Cigarettes Double as Costs Rise
16 Jul
Summary
- Illicit cigarette purchases nearly doubled since 2023.
- Rising cost of living is a key factor for smokers.
- Underage smokers increasingly buy from corner shops.
The proportion of smokers buying cheap cigarettes from illicit sources has nearly doubled since 2023, according to recent analysis. This significant rise is strongly linked to the increased cost of living impacting households over recent years.
Research indicates that while 76.9% of smokers still purchase tobacco legally, a substantial 23.1% admitted to using illicit sources in the past six months. This marks a significant increase from 12.2% in 2023.
These illicit purchases encompass buying tobacco from friends, obtaining 'under-the-counter' products from local shops, or sourcing cheap cigarettes on the street. Professor Sarah Jackson highlighted financial pressures as a primary driver for smokers seeking cheaper options.
The study also raised concerns about underage individuals. Among 16 to 17-year-olds who purchased tobacco, 73.6% reported buying from corner shops or newsagents. The upcoming Tobacco and Vapes Bill aims to address this by gradually raising the age of sale.
Experts stress that while the proportion of smokers using illicit sources has grown, the overall illicit market size may not have expanded. Effective enforcement and continued support for quitting smoking remain crucial alongside legislative changes.
