TO effectively combat illegal trade in contraband and counterfeit cigarettes, through better operational relationships was the focus of an international conference recently hosted by the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) and French Customs in Marseilles, France.

European member states reported seizures of 4.7 billion cigarettes in 2009, accounting for actual losses of more than €10 billion annually, in taxes and duties to EU and member states through cigarette smuggling.

The conference concluded that the global nature of cigarette smuggling meant that international cooperation was lacking. It was essential to work together and reinforce international partnerships through rapid exchanges of operational information to target smuggling and counterfeiting besides ensuring good working relations with neighbouring countries to strengthen the fight against fraud.

The conference was also attended by delegates of 27 member states, international law enforcement agents, World Customs Organisation and Europol besides the world's leading tobacco manufacturers. Discussions were conducted on the new trends in smuggling.