The law enforcers from Ukraine, the Republic of Moldova, and Poland convened in Chisinau on 15th September for a high-level international symposium led by the European Union Border Assistance Mission (EUBAM) to address the pressing issue of illegal cigarette manufacturing and trade.

The symposium focused on effectively mapping the problem and strategies to combat illicit cigarette manufacturing. The demand for illegal cigarettes has increased considerably after Russia’s unjustified war of aggression on Ukraine. As normal supply chains were cut, many clandestine factories were opened here in Europe to produce on the spot.

The participants of the international symposium underscored the significance of addressing illicit cigarette manufacturing, given its multifaceted impact on society, health, and economies. Participants aim to develop more effective strategies to combat this illicit trade and protect public health and revenue streams by fostering collaboration and sharing expertise.

Slawomir Pichor, Head of EUBAM, highlighted the profound negative impact of illicit cigarette manufacturing and trade on societies. “Illicit cigarette production generates significant profits for criminal networks and facilitates other criminal activities, often including organized crime and money laundering. Additionally, governments suffer substantial revenue losses due to tax evasion, and consumers face health risks from substandard, unregulated products.”

The symposium was attended by the leaders of the Security and Intelligence Service of the Republic of Moldova, the Economic Security Bureau of Ukraine, and the General Police Inspectorate of the Republic of Moldova. In addition, EU High-Level Advisers, Customs and Border Authorities from the Republic of Moldova, Poland, and Ukraine, as well as representatives from the tobacco manufacturing industry and academia, took part.