Here’s something to consider next time you see someone furtively sucking on a cigarette in one of the few public spots smoking is still allowed: every cigarette smoked in this country contributes just over R1 to the fiscus.

Or, at least, it would if every cigarette were purchased legitimately. This, it turns out, is unlikely. South Africa boasts a world-beating level of illicit tobacco trading: depending on who you trust, it is either 54% or 70%, and it costs the fiscus between R12bn and R19bn a year...

This article is free to read if you sign up or sign in.

If you have already registered or subscribed, please sign in to continue.



Questions or problems? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00.

Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.