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British American Tobacco has been accused of “complete double standards” for lobbying against anti-smoking regulations in Africa which are already enforced in the UK.

African regulatory opposition

A letter obtained by media originating from the corporation's branch in Zambia to the nation's political leaders demands proposals to prohibit tobacco marketing and promotional activities to be scrapped or postponed.

The tobacco firm seeks modifications of a draft bill that include lowering the proposed size of visual health alerts on cigarette packaging, the withdrawal of controls on flavoured tobacco products, and reduced sanctions for any companies violating the new laws.

Health advocate reaction

“Were I in government, I would say that they enable the defense of the British people and continue the mortality of the Zambian people,” commented Master Chimbala.

Over seven thousand citizens a year succumb to tobacco-related illnesses, according to WHO calculations.

Chimbala said the letter was believed to have been distributed to several government departments and was in circulating through public interest organizations.

Worldwide lobbying patterns

The situation emerges alongside broader worries about industry interference with health policies. Recently, global health authorities issued a warning that the tobacco industry was increasing attempts to undermine international regulations.

“There is proof of industry lobbying everywhere. Manufacturer hallmarks are on deferred levy rises in Indonesia, halted laws in Zambia and even a weakened declaration at the UN high-level meeting,” commented the corporate monitoring director.

Potential consequences

“When public health regulation isn’t passed because of this letter, the cost might be borne in individuals' health who might otherwise quit smoking.”

The tobacco control bill progressing through Zambia’s parliament includes regulations surpassing UK legislation by extending coverage to e-cigarettes, and requiring that visual health alerts cover seventy-five percent of product packaging.

Company alternative suggestions

Via documentation, the corporation proposes this be lowered to less than half “within the WHO-FCTC guideline limits”, postponed for minimum twelve months after the bill passes.

International experts specifically advises a warning should cover at least 50% of the product container front “and seek to occupy as much of the principal display areas as possible”. Across the United Kingdom, warnings must cover 65% of a packet’s front and back.

Flavored tobacco discussion

BAT asks for the withdrawal of extensive controls on flavored cigarette varieties, arguing that it would push consumers toward “black market” products. The company proposes banning a limited selection of “flavours based on desserts, candy, energy drinks, soft drinks and alcohol drinks”. Each flavored smoking item have been banned in the UK since 2020.

The proposed legislation recommends punishments for different infractions “extending from a portion of yearly revenue to ten-year jail sentences”.

Business explanation

Through correspondence, the company executive of British American Tobacco Zambia states the corporation is focused on good corporate behaviour” and “supports the objectives of governments to decrease cigarette consumption and the connected wellbeing effects” but maintains that “specific rules can have unwelcome and unexpected consequences.”

Activist reaction

Chimbala said the corporation's recommended amendments would “weaken this legislation so much that the necessary effect for it to create lasting transformation in society will not be achieved”.

The fact that numerous similar measures existed in the UK, where the company maintains its main office, was “total double standard”, he commented.

“We reside in a global village. Should I grow cigarettes in my property and collect the yield and distribute the goods – and my offspring don't use tobacco, but my neighbour’s children do … to benefit personally and all the generations of my children while my community's youth are perishing … is in itself total emotional collapse.”

Anti-smoking regulations in the UK or elsewhere had failed to shutter businesses, Chimbala said. “Legislation never shuts down the industry. Measures simply defend the people.”

Standard business position

The company representative said: “BAT Zambia conducts its operations according with current country statutes. Additionally, the corporation engages in the country’s legislative process in line with the relevant frameworks which enable interested party involvement in legislation creation.”

The company was “not resisting legislation”, the spokesperson stated, adding that underage people should be shielded from obtaining cigarettes and nicotine.

“We champion developing rules to accomplish desired community wellbeing objectives, while accepting the variety of rights and obligations on corporations, customers and associated groups,” the representative explained, mentioning that the corporation's recommendations “reflect the realities of the local commercial environment and cigarette sector, which includes rising levels of illicit trade”.

The country's office of economic activities and commercial operations was contacted for response.