Media

Those selling illegal tobacco are not checking ID

TORONTO, ON, February 5, 2024 –Kory McDonald, Head, External Affairs, Rothmans, Benson & Hedges Inc. (RBH), issued the following statement today, in response to the Government of Alberta’s recently renewed Tobacco and Vaping Strategy.

“Alberta’s renewal of its Tobacco and Vaping Strategy with its emphasis on preventing youth access especially in the online retail space, is a positive step that builds on efforts to help adult smokers switch to smoke free products. We fully support any initiatives that aim to reduce youth access to tobacco and vaping products.  At RBH, we have been clear that no nicotine or nicotine-containing products should ever be in the hands of minors.  

“The strategy also acknowledges the dangers of a growing contraband tobacco market. If Alberta was to take further action against this illegal trade through increased enforcement and penalties, the province could see even more benefits. Contraband directly funds organized crime, including, guns, drug and human trafficking, and increases the risk of youth access to nicotine products. Simply put, those selling illegal tobacco are not checking ID.  

“We further encourage the Government of Alberta to recognize that smoke-free products - such as heated tobacco and vaping products - although addictive and not risk-free, offer adult smokers better and potentially less harmful alternatives to cigarettes.  We will continue advancing the need for a supportive regulatory framework to ensure adult consumers have awareness about, can access, and can afford alternatives to cigarettes.”

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To learn more about RBH, visit: https://www.rbhinc.ca/ 

About Rothmans, Benson & Hedges Inc.

Rothmans, Benson & Hedges Inc. (RBH), an affiliate of Philip Morris International Inc., is one of Canada’s leading tobacco and nicotine companies and is working to deliver a smoke-free future. RBH is committed to sustainability and creating a positive impact on communities, the economy, and the environment. Currently, RBH employs nearly 800 people across the country with its headquarters in Toronto and a factory in Québec City. Discover more about the company at https://www.rbhinc.ca/ and stay updated on RBH’s transformation by following Twitter and LinkedIn.

Media Inquiries:

Media Relations
Brayden Akers, Media Relations Lead
Brayden.akers@rbhinc.ca