Retailers Against Smuggling (RAS) has said that the publication of a new survey proves the continuing escalation of Ireland’s illicit tobacco market.

The Revenue Commissioners’’ Illegal Tobacco Products Research Survey 2025, independently conducted by Ipsos MRBI, was published on Thursday, found that illegal and non-duty paid tobacco in circulation has hit a record high of 38% of cigarettes in circulation.

The figures are even bigger for Roll-Your-Own (RYO) tobacco, with 45% of RYO in circulation being either illegal or non-duty paid.

Based on the findings from Revenue, as well as recent data from the Department of Finance, RAS has concluded that Ireland’s untaxed cigarette market is now worth €845 million.

Based on the survey results, the level of tax loss from illegal cigarettes reached €645 million, up from €590 million in 2024, highlighting the worsening scale of the issue facing both the Exchequer and Irish retailers.

‘Unintended Consequence’

Speaking about the findings, RAS national spokesperson, Benny Gilsenan, said, “Today’s findings are stark. Ireland is awash with tobacco products that have no tax paid on them in this country because they are being bought illegally or being brought into the country from cheaper markets.

“The government’s approach to Ireland’s tobacco market is driving unintended consequences, largely as a result of exorbitant excise rates which are pushing consumers towards cheaper alternatives.

“When legal products are priced out of reach, consumers are drawn to illicit, untaxed tobacco.

“Criminal networks are the clear winners, while legitimate retailers – our local convenience stores and newsagents – are the big losers.

In response to the survey, RAS called on the government to freeze excise rates on tobacco products in Budget 2027, oppose EU plans to equalise excise rates on RYO tobacco which would further drive up the price in Ireland, and commence a similar survey of illegal and non-duty-paid products.