‘Illegal Products Are Widespread’: JTI Reports Spring Test Purchase Results to UK Regulators

On July 12, UK retail media reported that JTI (Japan Tobacco International) has once again highlighted the widespread presence of illegal tobacco and e-cigarettes in stores across the UK following its latest round of test purchases. The report mentioned that out of 186 stores involved in the spring test purchase, more than half (96 stores) sold illegal cigarettes, roll-your-own (RYO) tobacco, or e-cigarettes. Among the findings, JTI also purchased a disposable e-cigarette that claimed to have a 3500 puff capacity but exceeded the oil limit.
The report stated that all information collected by JTI UK will be provided to the UK Customs and the Trading Standards Office, aiming to take enforcement action and prosecute. Ian Howell, JTI's Finance and Regulatory Affairs Manager, revealed that JTI has been continuously conducting test purchases of illegal tobacco products and included e-cigarettes in the scope of testing in 2022. He noted that a survey conducted by JTI in 2022 showed that nearly 40% of smokers admitted to purchasing non-domestic products in the past month.
The report also mentioned the regulatory dynamics in the UK. This month, the UK tax authorities and Customs will announce the tax gap caused by illegal tobacco sales. Currently, the UK is updating its strategy to combat smuggled tobacco, and one of the most anticipated directions in the industry is to enhance support for the Trading Standards Office. In previous news, the General Secretary of the UK Vaping Association also stated that the Trading Standards Office, responsible for enforcement, is facing funding shortages and suggested increasing funding.