Gold Coast Bulletin exposes the “catastrophic” impact of illicit tobacco and vape trade on small retailers, as MGA calls for urgent action.
The article exposed the “catastrophic” impact of the illegal tobacco and vape trade on small retailers. MGA CEO Martin Stirling highlighted that organised crime networks are profiting from illicit tobacco while independent businesses face soaring insurance premiums—up to 50% increases—due to firebombing risks near tobacconists. Stirling warned that decades of public health progress are being undone as illegal cigarettes are sold at steep discounts, often to minors.
The piece also noted that some retailers struggle to secure insurance coverage, forcing price hikes and risking job losses. NSW Health has seized millions of illegal cigarettes and vapes this year, with fines exceeding $597,000, including a $144,000 penalty for one tobacconist. MGA called for urgent action to protect small businesses from the financial and safety fallout of this illicit trade.
For media enquiries, please contact:
Kath Markov, Marketing & Partnerships Manager
kath.markov@mgaiba.org.au
0452 660 506
