In 2025, Romanian authorities confiscated 212 million contraband cigarettes, with a value of 197.5 million lei, marking a significant increase compared to 2024.

In 2025, Romanian authorities confiscated approximately 212 million contraband cigarettes, with an estimated value of 197.5 million lei, according to data from the StopContrabanda.ro platform. This seizure is nearly four times larger than in 2024, due to the intensification of actions to combat illicit trafficking.

The average illicit trade in tobacco products has increased to 10.6%, and the black market has reached 12.6% of total consumption, the highest level in the last six years. The largest seizures were recorded in the counties of Suceava, Constanța, and Timiș. BAT Romania supports awareness campaigns to highlight the impact of smuggling on the economy.

The year 2025 was marked by the dismantling of criminal groups and the discovery of sophisticated methods for concealing illegal products. Combating smuggling requires cooperation between authorities and industry, balanced fiscal policies, and informing consumers about the risks of illegal products.