A survey shows that a majority of Malaysian smokers want a reduction in the prices of cigarettes. This is because they believe the high prices are increasing demand for illegal cigarettes.

The survey conducted by the British American Tobacco (Malaysia) Berhad (BAT Malaysia) shows that a strong majority of Malaysians (64%) believe that the high price of goods, including cigarettes, is a key factor driving people to the black market.

And three quarters of all respondents (75%) support the Malaysian Government in introducing measures to stop the black market in the 2021 Budget.

8 out of 10 (79%) Malaysians agree that more enforcement is required, in terms of increasing border security and better monitoring of products imported and exported.

On the other hand, 67% of Malaysians believe the black market, of which illegal tobacco is a significant component, is at a crisis levels, severely impacting Malaysia’s economy.

They also believe the government should do something to recover at least RM5 billion that is said to be the loss of revenue from contraband.
Jonathan Reed, Managing Director of BAT Malaysia says to get back the RM5 billion needs a comprehensive approach, with the Government using all the tools at its disposal.

The nationwide survey was commissioned by BAT Malaysia in August 2020, consisting of an online survey of around 2,000 Malaysian adults.