In fact, it is poor law enforcement that sets the stage for this illegal activity. The biggest cost of tobacco use is the disease and suffering it brings to millions. Moderate action, such as higher tobacco taxes, could ensure tremendous health gains. Governments wishing to halt the rising toll of tobacco-related deaths should strongly consider increases in tobacco taxes as a matter of priority. Mr James D. Wolfensohn, President of the World Bank, said the economic aspects of tobacco control are now receiving strong global attention.
Tobacco control is a high priority in our efforts to improve global health.
We are now working with governments in many countries to act on the evidence and recommendations in Curbing the Epidemic , the World Bank's 1999 report. This is a far higher percentage than the smuggled amount of most internationally-traded consumer goods. The problem is worst where illegal activity goes unchecked. The publication's authors note that raising the price of cigarettes could increase sales of contraband cigarettes. However, this new research suggests that smuggling is less likely in settings with strong capacity for enforcing the law.