Jump to full article: Malta Independent (mt), 2008-10-30
Author: Annaliza Borg
Intro: "The world in general has experienced an increase in contraband sales," despite enforcement of import and export controls, said Finance Minister Tonio Fenech yesterday.
"Smuggling remains a key problem in the cigarette trade and is likely to be the cause for disrupting legitimate sales in the near future," he added.
Mr Fenech was speaking at the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) annual meeting on cigarette smuggling, being held until tomorrow in St Julian's.
Mr Fenech said Malta's internal market was more prone to illegal activity due to higher prices of tobacco products when compared to prices in a number of foreign countries.
He explained that Malta experienced large-scale cigarette smuggling in transiting containers. Often, smuggling focused on well-known international brands, for instant recognition and confidence which resulted in quick sale.
Mainland operations by the Customs department have also proved to be significant
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