| Author (Corporate) | European Commission: DG Communication |
|---|---|
| Series Title | Press Release |
| Series Details | IP/07/1927 (14.12.07) |
| Publication Date | 14/12/2007 |
| Content Type | News |
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The European Commission, together with 26 participating Member States of the European Union[1], and JT International (JTI) today announced a multi-year agreement that includes an efficient system to fight against future cigarette smuggling and counterfeiting. Through the Agreement, JTI will work with the European Commission, its anti-fraud office OLAF, and law enforcement authorities of the Member States to help in the fight against contraband, including the problem of counterfeit cigarettes. The Agreement includes substantial payments by JTI, which total USD 400 million over fifteen years. 'I welcome the conclusion of the negotiations of this important agreement. It is to the advantage of the EU because it protects its financial interests,' said Commission President José Manuel Barroso. 'This Agreement represents a further major step forward in the continuing battle against contraband and counterfeit cigarettes,' said Vice-president Siim Kallas, responsible for the fight against fraud. 'Contraband and counterfeit products cheat everyone: governments, consumers and legitimate businesses. This new agreement will further enhance the ability of the European Commission and of the Member States to combat the illegal trade in cigarettes, which results in the loss of substantial tax and customs revenues each year. It sends a strong signal to the world that agreements between authorities and industry to fight illegal trade work and bring substantial benefits,' he added. |
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| Source Link | Link to Main Source http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/07/1927&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en |
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| Subject Categories | Health |
| Countries / Regions | Europe |
