Seizures of over 6,000kgs of tobacco at Dublin Port welcomed by Irish retailers

Retailers Against Smuggling (RAS) welcomes the announcement (23.02.23) by Revenue of the major seizure at Dublin Port of approximately 6,000kgs of tobacco and 2,400 cigarettes on the 15^th February and 12.3kgs of tobacco on the 20th February, worth a combined estimated retail value of over €4.5 million, showing a potential loss to the Exchequer of over €3.5 million. This is the third seizure so far this month and is yet another first-hand indicator of an exceptionally active black market and the scale of tobacco smuggling in Ireland.

RAS commends the ongoing work by Revenue officials in the fight against smuggling, particularly at our major points of entry through ports and airports. However, the issue of tobacco smuggling remains a huge threat for registered and legitimate tobacco retailers whose legal cigarette trade can account for 20 – 30 per cent of their business.

RAS encourages anyone with information on the sale or supply of illegal cigarettes and tobacco to contact Revenue’s confidential hotline. Free phone number 1800 295 295.