Subsequently, the high-level meeting took place on March 13, 2025, in Podgorica, Montenegro, preceded by a technical meeting on March 12, 2025. Both meetings were hosted by the Ministry of Finance of Montenegro, in collaboration with the WHO FCTC Secretariat, WHO, and Economics for Health/Johns Hopkins University.
Participants at the technical meeting included representatives from the Ministries of Finance (Customs and Excise tax departments) of the Western Balkans, along with international and research organizations. The recommendations emphasized the importance of licensing, monitoring, surveillance, and legal frameworks to combat illicit tobacco trade. They highlighted the need for unique identification markings, track and trace systems, and cooperation with international organizations. Additionally, stringent controls in free zones were recommended, and countries were urged to accede to the Protocol for enhanced international cooperation.
During the opening session of the high-level meeting, the Prime Minister of Montenegro, the Head of the WHO FCTC Secretariat, the Head of the European Union Delegation in Montenegro, and the WHO Regional Director for Europe highlighted illicit tobacco trade's severe economic, security, and public health consequences. They stressed the urgent need for collective action to combat this growing challenge in the Balkans.
A roundtable discussion, chaired by the Minister of Finance of Montenegro, featured ministers and deputy ministers from Albania, North Macedonia, Serbia, and the Republic of Srpska. They shared experiences and stressed the need for a unified approach to eliminate tobacco tax evasion and illicit trade in tobacco products. Experts from the World Bank, Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, and World Customs Organization provided insights on tobacco tax policy and initiatives to eliminate illicit trade in tobacco products.
The meeting concluded with commitments to accelerate the ratification and implementation of the Protocol. Key focuses included stakeholder coordination, effective supply chain control, establishing unlawful conduct including criminal offenses, and enhancing international cooperation, including information sharing, and mutual administrative and legal assistance. The need for policy coherence, using price and tax measures to reduce consumption, and awareness activities was highlighted. Concerns about the tobacco industry's influence on public health policies were also discussed.
The WHO FCTC Secretariat will continue to support Parties in the implementing the Protocol, advancing tobacco control policies, and thereby contributing to the achievement of sustainable development goals.