Why illicit tobacco should be stubbed out immediately

One in 10 cigarettes and tobacco products consumed globally is illicit. Ahead of ' World No Tobacco Day' (May 31), Hansa Venkateswaran highlights its dangers.

Why illicit trade is a health priority

-Makes tobacco products more affordable and accessible to people from low-income groups, as well as children

- Means less revenue for governments

- Illicit tobacco products not subject to legal restrictions and effective health regulations aimed at curbing tobacco use

- Sponsors criminals and funds organised crime

If illicit tobacco trade is eliminated:

- Govts would gain $31 billion annually

- Reduce one million premature deaths attributable to tobacco products every six years