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In Quebec, possessing or selling illicit cigarettes can lead to serious legal
troubles
that could cost you and your community more than you bargained for.
It’s time to shed light on the dangers of this illegal market trade, because awareness is the first step to being part of the solution.
DID YOU KNOW?
Whether you buy them from a First Nations "smoke shack," a friend, or a retail clerk, if you do not have a registered status, possessing unstamped tobacco is illegal under both federal and provincial laws. Where and how you get them doesn't change the law.
Are you a consumer thinking about buying illicit cigarettes? Under Quebec law, possession of illicit or unstamped tobacco products can result in fines of up to $7,500 for a first offence and up to $25,000 for a second offence.
The sale of illicit cigarettes funds approximately 175 criminal organizations in Canada, which use the money to fund other illegal activities, such as human trafficking, drug trafficking, and weapons smuggling.
Behind every illicit cigarette is a chain of crime: from cartel violence to human trafficking at home.
Quebec loses $125 million per year in tax revenue from illegal tobacco, money that could fund healthcare, education, and social services.
Buying illicit cigarettes costs us all more than you think.
Consequences
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Read this twice: each day, 1.5 corner stores are closing across the country as illicit cigarettes siphon their profits.
Selling illicit or unstamped tobacco products carries hefty penalties, including fines up to $1 million (or $2.5 million for a subsequent offence). Serious offences can also lead to prison terms of up to 5 years under federal laws and up to 2 years under Quebec laws. Still see cheap tobacco as a business with no consequences?
How do I recognize illegal cigarettes?
What are the effects on youth?
How is organized crime involved?
SEE
