The proportion of smuggled cigarettes in Slovakia is at a historical level

According to the survey, today, on average, every thirteenth cigarette pack is sold without a Slovak stamp. The problem is partly caused by consumers’ purchases from abroad, but a more serious problem is organized smuggling groups that bring illegal goods into the country in large quantities.

According to the president of the association, Lubomír Tuchscher, the increase in the number of counterfeits in recent years is particularly alarming. These are produced in illegal factories, often directly in Slovakia, and imitate well-known brands.

In the debate on the efficiency of excise tax collection, the organization also warned that upcoming legislative changes – such as the ban on flavored e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches – could lead to further market distortions. Based on foreign examples, bans often strengthen the black market: in Estonia and Denmark, flavored products are being pushed out of legal circulation and account for up to 60 percent of the market, without any state tax revenue. In Slovakia, a similar process could cause an additional loss of tens of millions of euros in excise tax annually.