Ladies and Gentlemen, let us emphasize once again that this Meeting of Parties to the Protocol to Eliminate Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products is dedicated to addressing the challenges posed by the illicit trade of tobacco products globally.
As we gather and proceed further here today, we must recognize the profound significance of the Protocol in combatting illicit trade in tobacco products, which not only undermines public health efforts to advance tobacco control but also fuels organized crime and deprives governments of revenue.
Illicit trade of tobacco products therefore transcends borders and jurisdictions. Its pervasive nature further underscores the imperative for international cooperation and coordination to tackle this complex issue effectively. The Protocol serves as a vital instrument in facilitating such cooperation, coordination and provides a framework for concerted action on a global scale.
The detrimental impact of illicit tobacco trade on public health cannot be overstated. It exacerbates smoking prevalence, exposes consumers to counterfeit and unregulated products, and presents formidable challenges in implementing and enforcing tobacco control policies besides huge amount of revenue loss and increased enforcement costs for governments contribute to the economic burden imposed by illicit trade. The toll on public health is staggering, underscoring the urgency of our collective efforts.
Addressing the challenge of illicit trade in tobacco products requires a multifaceted approach that encompasses both public health and economic considerations.
While we have made significant strides in implementing the Protocol several challenges persist. Evolving tactics employed by illicit traders demand enhanced enforcement measures and innovative solutions. Administrative, technical and financial limitations of the parties further exacerbate these challenges, undermining efforts to combat illicit trade.
It is imperative that all stakeholders play their part in addressing these challenges. I want to congratulate the parties who have ratified and become a part of the international treaty. Together, we must expand this group to include as many countries as possible to witness a global reduction in the illegal trade of tobacco products.
Collaboration among Parties, law enforcement agencies, public health organizations, inter-governmental organisations and civil society is paramount in implementing and enforcing the Protocol. Innovations such as the track-and-trace systems, digital tax stamps, and international cooperation mechanisms offer promising avenues for combatting illicit trade.
Evidence based research, implementation assistance and capacity-building initiatives for advancing implementation of the Protocol are also crucial in enhancing countries' ability to effectively detect, investigate, and prosecute illicit trade activities.
In the next four days, MOP will be considering important agenda items to address some of these challenges and provide further guidance and roadmap on effectively curbing illicit trade in tobacco products.
By strengthening regulatory frameworks and enforcement capabilities to mitigate illicit trade, I hope, MOP will pave way for implementation assistance and evidence-based action to better safeguard public health and protect our communities from the harms of the illicit tobacco trade.
In conclusion, I reaffirm our commitment to the Protocol and to take concrete actions to address the illicit trade in tobacco products. Let us strengthen cooperation, foster innovation, and work together to protect public health, advance tobacco control by eliminating illicit trade in tobacco products.
Thank you.