On 30/04/2026, Revenue officers seized approximately 11.4 million cigarettes at Dublin Port. The smuggled cigarettes have an estimated value of over €10.8 million, representing a potential loss to the Exchequer of over €8.4 million.
It is a stark reminder of the scale of the illegal tobacco trade operating in Ireland today.
Seizures of this nature should not be seen as isolated successes, but rather as indicators of a deeply entrenched illicit market. Criminal networks continue to exploit vulnerabilities in supply chains, flooding the market with illegal tobacco products. It is likely that what is being seized may represent only a fraction of what is successfully entering the country undetected.
Now more than ever, RAS believes there is an urgent need to combat the illicit tobacco market with renewed focus. Stronger enforcement and a review of high excise rates are required. Without decisive action, levels of illicit trade will continue to erode tax revenues, damage legitimate retailers, and pose ongoing risks to public health.