The data that destroys the idea that Australians are quitting smoking
New data reveals that up to 80% of cigarettes consumed in Australia are illegal, challenging the notion that smoking rates are declining. The Australian Bureau of Statistics has highlighted a significant rise in the illicit tobacco market, which has grown from 12% in 2017 to 80% in 2025. This increase coincides with a rise in nicotine consumption and a drop in legal tobacco spending, indicating a shift towards cheaper illegal options.
- ▪Illicit nicotine products comprised 80% of consumption in Australia in 2025, up from 12% in 2017.
- ▪Nicotine consumption grew by 40% during the same period, with most of the increase occurring in the last four years.
- ▪The federal government is spending over $300 million to combat the illicit tobacco trade, which has led to a collapse in tax revenues.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Sydney Morning Herald.