black market cigarettes meaning Retailers see massive drop in cigarette sales, as SA smokers turn to the Tobacco Industry Marketing | American

The practice, commonly used by the tobacco industry, [2] [3] organized crime syndicates and rebel groups, is a form of tax evasion

Mr Martin believes this money is flowing into the black market

One leading criminology expert called the networks behind the supply of illegal cigarettes the "golden thread for understanding serious organised crime", because of its links to people trafficking and, in some cases, illegal immigration

Independent supermarket owner Sumeet Cheema said illegal tobacco was the biggest challenge his business faced at the moment, along with cost-of-living pressures

However, its also important to recognize that black markets can sometimes fill gaps left by formal economies, particularly during times of crisis or in heavily regulated economies

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