EU will try to stop flow of illegal cigarretes from Ukraine
EU’s authorities plan to bring an end to illicit flow of cigarettes on eastern border, including Ukraine. People, living near the borders with EU countries, using opportunity to earn money such way.
According to the EU’s anti-fraud office (OLAF), the contraband tobacco trade deprives the EU and its member states of roughly €10 billion of public revenue every year.
Ukraine, in particular, has recently grown to become the main source country, with a member of the cabinet of recently elected Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelensky, noting that Ukraine has turned into the 'world’s hub' in past years for smuggling cigarettes to Europe.
"Despite the many actions undertaken, including increased customs cooperation with third countries, the problem is still as large as it ever was", - said Member of the European Parliament Tomislav Sokol.
Belarus, on the other hand, has been linked with illegal tobacco for years. It is the main source country of non-domestic cigarettes for many EU countries.
Recognised as a top priority by former Commissioner for Budget and Human Resources, Günther H. Oettinger, the European Commission reaffirmed the leading role it has been playing in the fight against cigarette smuggling with its ambitious 2018 action plan.
Yet, despite the many actions undertaken, including increased customs cooperation with third countries, the problem is still as large as it ever was.
Источник: Ukrinform
