# Proportion of smokers buying cigarettes illegally doubles since 2023 – study

By Mark Oates — 2026-07-16

Mark Oates, founder of We Vape, said: “This should be a warning for policymakers.

“If illicit cigarettes remain cheap and easy to buy while the government continues its war on safer nicotine products like vaping and nicotine pouches, it risks pushing more smokers towards the black market rather than away from smoking.

“The best way to reduce demand for illegal tobacco isn’t just tougher enforcement, it’s ensuring that substantially safer alternatives remain affordable, appealing and accessible to adults who smoke, alongside strong action against illicit sales and robust enforcement of age-of-sale laws.”

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