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And remember, when it comes to illicit cigarettes, we ALL face the consequences.
In Alberta, possessing or selling illicit cigarettes can lead to serious legal
troubles
that could cost you and your community more than you bargained for.
It’s time to shed light on the dangers of this illegal trade, because awareness is the first step to being part of the solution.
DID YOU KNOW?
Public opinion research has highlighted a general lack of awareness regarding contraband cigarettes, revealing a widespread misconception that purchasing them is legal. (1) Possessing contraband cigarettes is illegal. Whether you buy your tobacco from a First Nations "smoke shack", a friend, or a retail clerk doesn't change the law. Where and how you get them doesn't change the law. SourceConsequences
Are you a consumer thinking about buying illicit cigarettes? Under the Alberta Tobacco Tax Act, possession of tobacco products that are not marked for tax-paid sale in Alberta can result in fines up to $20,000, or to a term of imprisonment up to 6 months, or both, for a first offence.
The sale of illicit cigarettes funds approximately 175 criminal organizations in Canada, which use the money to fund other illegal activities, such as drug trafficking, weapons smuggling, and human trafficking.
Behind every contraband cigarette is a chain of crime: from cartel violence to human trafficking at home.
Alberta loses $102 million per year in tax revenue from illegal tobacco. Between 2021 and 2023, the province lost a total of $262.6 million, money that could have funded healthcare, education, and social services.
Buying illicit cigarettes costs us all more than you think.
Read this twice: each day, 1.5 corner stores are closing across the country as illicit cigarettes siphon their profits.
Selling illicit or unstamped tobacco products carries hefty penalties. Under the Alberta Tobacco Tax Act, selling illegal tobacco products can result in fines up to $20,000, or to a term of imprisonment up to 6 months, or both, for a first offence. Fines go up to $50,000, term of imprisonment up to 1 year for a second offence. Under federal law, serious offences can lead to fines of up to $ 1 million and prison terms of up to 5 years. Still see cheap tobacco as a business with no consequences?
SEE THE Legal cigarettes in Canada require standardized plain packaging, health warnings, and excise tax stamps. If you do not have official legal authorization, keep in mind that possessing cigarettes in colourful packaging with an exemption tax stamp is illegal.
First, let's test your knowledge
How do I recognize illicit cigarettes?
What are the effects on youth?
How is organized crime involved?
