Our strategic commitment
The proliferation of illicit cigarette trade in Israel presents a severe challenge to the country’s economy and public order. Smuggled and counterfeit products undermine legitimate businesses and bypass strict regulatory standards. Today, the illicit market is estimated to account for approximately 15-20% of total consumption, resulting in a staggering loss of state tax revenue exceeding 1.8 billion NIS annually. These are vital funds that should be supporting national infrastructure, healthcare, and education, but instead flow into the hands of criminal elements.
To effectively counter this phenomenon, JTI Israel leads a proactive and uncompromising front in collaboration with the Federation for Intellectual Property. Our partnership is built on a shared mission to safeguard the market from intellectual property violations and brand protection threats. By combining JTI’s global expertise with the Federation's deep local enforcement insights, we are implementing advanced monitoring, reporting, and legal strategies to dismantle illegal distribution networks that drain the public purse.
We are actively taking initiatives to raise awareness among policymakers regarding the fiscal "black hole" created by the illicit trade. By exposing the true scale of these financial losses, we aim to strengthen enforcement and promote a fairer, more transparent business environment. JTI Israel will continue to spearhead these efforts alongside the Federation to ensure that the rule of law prevails and that the integrity of the Israeli market remains uncompromised.