Combating illicit trade in Mali

16 April, 2014

Imperial Tobacco is supporting a nationwide campaign to raise awareness of illicit trade in Mali.

The National Directorate of Trade & Competition organised an anti-illicit trade (AIT) information and awareness forum in the capital Bamako for retailers and wholesalers.

Key government and law enforcement authorities took part in the event to launch the "Stop Fraud" campaign following the implementation of new health warnings on cigarette packs.

The campaign was communicated through the media, including leading newspapers, national TV and radio. Posters were also displayed at more than 5,000 points of sale and on numerous billboards.

Issouf Traoré, General Manager Mali, said: "It's a major priority for us to cooperate with all those involved in combating illicit trade and we want the trade to be aware of its impact.

"We recently signed an AIT partnership agreement with BAT and we'll continue to support government and law enforcement agencies in their efforts to tackle illicit trade in Mali which costs the government more than XOF 10 billion (£12.6m) in revenue each year."

Photo: A guided tour of our Sonatam manufacturing plant in Bamako was provided for Malian officials by Factory Manager Yara Celestin.

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