This photo taken on March 27, 2025 shows pedestrians walking past signs outside a tobacconist and convenience store in central Sydney. Sky-high tobacco prices in Australia have created a lucrative black market, analysts say, sparking a violent "tobacco war" and syphoning away billions in potential tax revenue. - AFP
SYDNEY: Sky-high tobacco prices in Australia have created a lucrative black market, analysts say, sparking a violent "tobacco war" and syphoning away billions in potential tax revenue.
Faced with a pack of 25 cigarettes costing up to Aus$50 (US$32) or more -- including Aus$1.40 (US$0.88) in tax on each stick -- many smokers have instead turned to readily available illicit tobacco.
