“The Law is Good!” new anti-smuggling campaign was launched in Moldova and Romania on October 1
The campaign takes place on both banks of the Nistru/Dniester River, in partnership with the customs authorities and border police of the two countries. It is aimed at raising awareness about the negative consequences of the illegal cigarette trade, the impact of organized crime and damage to the state budget, and the impact of smuggling on the economic development of border settlements. The campaign will run from October-December, covering online and outdoor advertising segments, and the main message will be delivered through an unconventional but memorable and creative approach. According to the latest data from Novel Research, Romania's black market for cigarettes accounted for 8.4% of total consumption in July, after a record high of 10.4% in May, the highest in the last 4 years. The head of the Moldovan Customs Service, Alexandru Iacub, announced the agency's intention to unite efforts and intensify international cooperation to effectively combat illegal trade in goods. In particular, increased attention is paid to the fight against the illicit trafficking of tobacco products, which is a global problem and has a direct link with cross-border crime. He stressed that the smuggling of cigarettes, including counterfeit products, is currently assessed as one of the most serious security risks on the Moldovan-Romanian border segment, which has a significant impact both on the national budget and on the budgets of the EU member states. The head of the Romanian Customs Administration, Marcel Simion Mutescu, also backed the campaign, noting that the authority will continue its efforts to increase logistic capacities, professional development and cooperation with all competent Romanian and foreign institutions, as well as with honest private businesses. Gilda Lazar, Head of Corporate Affairs and Communications of JTI Romania, Moldova and Bulgaria, said that every percent of reduction in smuggling means tens of millions of euros returned to the budget. “JTI Romania alone remitted to the state last year about 1.3 billion euros in excise duties, VAT, other taxes and contributions, which is more than 75% of the company's turnover. We are also one of the most profitable companies in Romania: we export about 75% of the production of the Pipera Platform plant, which this year celebrated its 30th anniversary since opening, and we invest heavily in society and culture. Usually in the fall and winter, smuggling increases along with the costs of daily life. The current year is even more challenging as it is an election year, with a significant budget deficit. “The black market could ruin the plans to increase budget revenues if the excise tax increase schedule, modified at the beginning of this year, is not adhered to,” said Gilda Lazar. It is worth mentioning that JTI has been present in Moldova since 2005 and cooperates with law enforcement bodies in the fight against illicit trade in tobacco products. The assistance of JTI Moldova consists in supporting the training of specialists, providing vehicles and equipment, developing the canine service, etc. // 01.10.2024 – InfoMarket
