Illegal tobacco is a serious problem in the UK. At JTI UK, we work closely with government, law enforcement, retailers, and communities to reduce the sale and distribution of illegal tobacco and to protect people and the economy through our It Costs More Than You Think campaign.
Source: Measuring tax gaps 2026 edition: tax gap estimates for 2024 to 2025. HM Revenue & Customs.
We are committed to raising awareness of the harm caused by illegal tobacco among retailers, consumers and communities. We highlight how illicit tobacco fuels organised crime, harms neighbourhoods, and undermines the safety and wellbeing of communities. By increasing public awareness, we aim to encourage the government to take action against illegal tobacco and help protect consumers from the wider consequences of the illicit trade.
Source: This data is based on an online survey that was conducted for JTI UK by an independent British Polling Council accredited research agency between January 7 and January 29 2026, involving a sample of 15,228 UK adults aged 19 and over including 5,444 smokers. To ensure the findings are representative of the UK general population, the data was weighted by age, gender and region.
The most recent figures from the UK Government, covering the fiscal year 2024/25, show that criminal activity accounted for 12% of cigarette consumption and 19% of the hand-rolling tobacco consumption, leading to a tax revenue loss of £1.7 billion. We believe this is an understatement. HM Revenue and Customs estimate that since 2010 the total tax revenue loss is £28.2 billion. This is money that could have been used to fund vital public services and support local neighborhoods but instead lines the pockets of organized crime groups.
If you are aware of anyone selling illegal tobacco, you can report it safely and anonymously through the following channels:
CrimeStoppers via telephone on 0800 555 111 or this online reporting form
HM Revenue & Customs Fraud Hotline via telephone on 0800 788 887
Trading Standards (through the Citizens Advice consumer helpline) on 0808 223 1133
To learn more about the impact of illegal tobacco, visit the It Costs More Than You Think website.
Together, by staying informed and speaking up, we can help tackle the illegal tobacco trade.
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