Imperial helps fight illicit trade in Mali

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

As part of the campaign, the National Directorate of Trade & Competition recently organized 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 displayed at more than 5,000 points of sale and on billboards.

“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,” said Issouf Traoré, general manager, Mali.

“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 XOF10 billion in revenue each year.”