Poor policy on tobacco and vaping supports organised crime
August 03, 2023 by colinmendelsohn.com.au
Poor policy on tobacco and vaping supports organised crime
FLAWED GOVERNMENT POLICIES on tobacco and vaping have been major drivers of organised crime in Australia. High tobacco taxes and harsh restrictions on vaping have created rampant black markets run by criminal gangs, causing widespread harm and public concern. Australia has the highest priced cigarettes in the world. A pack of 20 Marlboro costs $40 in Australia. The same pack is $24 in the UK and $13.50 in the US (all in AUD).
13.00% of the adult population are current smokers. There are approximately 2.6 million current smokers in Australia 15.20% of men are current smokers but only 10.90% of women.
SOURCE: GSTHR