TOBACCO CONTROL FEEDS AUSTRALIA'S BLACK MARKET — GFN•TV
May 04, 2026 by gfn.tv
TOBACCO CONTROL FEEDS AUSTRALIA'S BLACK MARKET — GFN•TV
Australia’s strict tobacco and vaping policies are increasingly linked to the rapid growth of an illicit nicotine market. Insights from recent discussions suggest that heavy taxation and prohibitive regulations have shifted a large share of demand into criminal channels. Estimates indicate that a significant portion of tobacco sales—and the vast majority of vaping products—now circulate outside the legal system. Experts argue that these conditions have created lucrative opportunities for organised crime, which has stepped in to meet persistent consumer demand.The situation highlights concerns that overly restrictive policies may reduce legal access without eliminating use. More broadly, it raises questions about whether prohibition-focused approaches can effectively control nicotine markets without unintended consequences.
11.00% of the adult population are current smokers. There are approximately 2.4 million current smokers in Australia 12.90% of men are current smokers but only 9.30% of women.
SOURCE: GSTHR
