The Protocol to Eliminate Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products: Questions and Answers
June 27, 2019
This WHO Q&A provides details about The Protocol to Eliminate Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products. The Protocol seeks to eliminate all forms of illicit or illegal trade in tobacco products. “Illicit trade” in tobacco products includes practices or conduct related to producing, shipping, receiving, possession of, distributing, selling or buying tobacco products which is prohibited by law.
In order to prevent illegal trade, the Protocol aims to secure the entire supply chain of tobacco through a series of government measures. This includes the establishment of a global tracking and tracing system within five years of a country joining the Protocol. To date, 54 countries have joined. Global information is also a part of the system, as well as provisions on licensing, record-keeping and regulation of internet-sales, duty-free sales and international transit.
