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The tobacco company stands accused of “complete double standards” for opposing anti-smoking regulations in Africa that are already in place in the UK.

Campaign in Zambia

A letter obtained by media sent from the company’s subsidiary in Zambia to the African officials demands plans to ban tobacco advertising and sponsorship to be canceled or deferred.

The corporation is pursuing modifications of a draft bill that include reductions in the suggested dimensions of graphic health warnings on cigarette packaging, the removal of restrictions on flavoured tobacco products, and watered-down penalties for any businesses disregarding the new laws.

Anti-tobacco campaigner response

“Were I in government, I would say that they enable the defense of the British people and perpetuate the death of the Zambian people,” stated the anti-tobacco campaigner.

Over seven thousand citizens a year die from smoking-associated diseases, according to global health agency statistics.

The campaigner stated the letter was believed to have been distributed to multiple official agencies and was in distribution within community advocacy networks.

International corporate influence worries

It comes amid wider concerns about industry interference with public health regulations. In recent weeks, WHO officials raised concerns that the tobacco industry was increasing attempts to dilute worldwide restrictions.

“Evidence exists of industry lobbying worldwide. Manufacturer hallmarks are on postponed duty hikes in Indonesia, delayed regulations in Zambia and even a weakened declaration at the UN high-level meeting,” said the tobacco industry watchdog.

Potential consequences

“If a tobacco control measure doesn't get enacted because of this letter, the consequences may be suffered in individuals' health who might potentially stop smoking.”

The anti-smoking legislation being considered by Zambia’s parliament includes measures that exceed UK legislation by also applying to e-cigarettes, and stipulating that visual health alerts cover three-quarters of product packaging.

Corporate counter-proposals

Through correspondence, the corporation proposes this be lowered to 30% or 50% “within the WHO-FCTC suggested parameters”, postponed for minimum one year after the legislation is approved.

Global health authorities specifically advises a warning should cover at least fifty percent of the front of a pack “and aim to cover as much of the principal display areas as possible”. In the UK, warnings are required to occupy 65% of a packet’s front and back.

Scented product controversy

The company seeks the elimination of comprehensive limitations on flavoured tobacco products, claiming that it would lead smokers to “illegally traded” products. The corporation recommends restricting fewer varieties of “scents derived from desserts, candy, energy drinks, soft drinks and alcohol drinks”. Every scented tobacco product have been prohibited in Britain since 2020.

The pending regulation proposes sanctions for various offences “varying from a fraction of annual sales to 10 years’ imprisonment”.

Business explanation

In the letter, the managing director of British American Tobacco Zambia claims the company is dedicated to responsible corporate conduct” and “endorses the aims of governments to reduce smoking incidence and the connected wellbeing effects” but claims that “certain measures can have unwelcome and unexpected consequences.”

Activist reaction

The advocate stated the company's suggested modifications would “undermine this law so much that the impact needed for it to create lasting transformation in society will not be achieved”.

The fact that multiple comparable regulations existed in the UK, where BAT is headquartered, was “total double standard”, he commented.

“We live in a global village. When I cultivate smoking products in my property and gather the crop and distribute the goods – and my children do not consume tobacco, but my neighbour’s children do … to benefit personally and all the generations of my children while my neighbour’s children are succumbing … is in itself absolute spiritual collapse.”

Tobacco control legislation in the Britain or other nations had not resulted in corporate closures, the advocate mentioned. “Regulations don't close the industry. It only protects the people.”

Standard business position

A BAT Zambia spokesperson said: “BAT Zambia conducts its activities following with applicable local laws. Moreover, the firm contributes in the nation's lawmaking procedures in line with the suitable systems which enable relevant group engagement in legislation creation.”

The firm positioned itself as “not resisting legislation”, the representative commented, noting that minors should be protected from acquiring smoking products and nicotine.

“We support progressive regulation to achieve intended community wellbeing objectives, while recognizing the range of rights and obligations on corporations, customers and associated groups,” the representative explained, mentioning that the corporation's recommendations “represent the situation of the Zambian market and cigarette sector, which includes growing volumes of illegal commerce”.

Zambia’s department of economic activities and commercial operations was contacted for response.