India, the fourth-largest illegal cigarette market globally, sees smuggled cigarettes make up 25% of its domestic market, according to PMI estimates. The company emphasized the critical need for stronger enforcement and collaboration to address the issue, which undermines public health, economic stability, and national security.

Navaneel Kar, managing director of IPM India, praised the government’s T&T initiative, stating it will enhance transparency and enforcement. PMI says it has implemented T&T systems in over 140 countries, including the EU and GCC states, with positive outcomes in reducing illicit trade.

Rodney Van Dooren, PMI’s Head of Illicit Trade Prevention for Asia Pacific, called for regional cooperation, noting India’s leadership role and growing influence in tackling counterfeit goods.

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Activists urge the government to increase cigarette prices across all tiers, particularly by merging the low and medium tiers—which account for 80% of the market—into a single category with a minimum retail price (MRP) of Tk90 ($1.08) for 10 sticks.

The budget also leaves bidi prices unchanged for the sixth consecutive time, with supplementary duty remaining static for the 10th straight year. Similarly, taxes on smokeless tobacco products such as jarda and gul remain unaltered, sparking concerns among health advocates.

While the budget raises the advance tax on cigarette manufacturers from 3% to 5% and increases supplementary duty on imported cigarette paper from 150% to 300%, activists argue these measures fall short of ensuring meaningful public health protection.

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The EU, a key importer of Indian tobacco, is set to enforce regulations under frameworks like the European Green Deal and Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism by 2026, with full implementation by 2030. These measures aim to ensure sustainability, climate neutrality, and transparency. Experts warn that nearly 50-60% of India’s farm exports, including tobacco, could be impacted due to gaps in technology, training, and resources needed to comply with the EU’s rigorous standards.

Indian farmers, many of whom are unaware of the impending changes, rely heavily on guidance from the Tobacco Board and the Central Tobacco Research Institute (CTRI). While efforts like promoting organic farming and reducing pesticide use are underway, the industry has yet to develop a comprehensive action plan. Tobacco Board Chairman Yashwant Kumar Chidipothu stresses the need for a gradual transition to meet global standards without jeopardizing the livelihoods of millions of farmers dependent on tobacco cultivation.

As Europe tightens regulations, experts warn of potential domestic market disruptions, including declining export prices and increased local tobacco consumption. With time running out, the industry must navigate a delicate balance between sustainability and economic survival to retain its position in the global market.

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Joint teams from the Food and Safety Department and the police conducted 831 raids throughout the year. Offending shops were sealed, and vehicles transporting illicit tobacco were confiscated. In early 2025, additional raids led to the seizure of 16.275 kilograms of banned products from six shops in just four days.

District Collector VP Jeyaseelan affirmed that strict measures will continue against those violating the ban, underscoring the administration’s commitment to public health and safety. The crackdown aims to curb access to harmful products and deter illegal sales in sensitive areas.

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Reddy condemned the unfair practices, noting the challenges farmers already face, including rising labor costs, poor yields, and delays in Rythu Bandhu benefits. He warned Alliance One to cease unjust deductions and ensure consistent daily procurement of crops, pledging BJP’s support for farmers if the exploitation persists.

The visit was attended by several district representatives and party leaders, reflecting a collective effort to address the grievances of tobacco farmers and ensure fair treatment in the procurement process.

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