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British American Tobacco has been accused of “complete double standards” for lobbying against tobacco control measures in Africa that currently exist in the UK.

Campaign in Zambia

Correspondence acquired by reporters originating from the corporation's branch in Zambia to the nation's political leaders asks for plans to ban tobacco advertising and sponsorship to be canceled or deferred.

The tobacco firm seeks changes to a proposed legislation that include reductions in the proposed size of graphic health warnings on cigarette packaging, the removal of restrictions on flavoured tobacco products, and diminished punishments for any firms breaking 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,” stated the anti-tobacco campaigner.

More than 7,000 Zambians a year pass away from tobacco-related illnesses, according to global health agency statistics.

Chimbala said the letter was known to have been circulated to several government departments and was in circulation among civil society groups.

International corporate influence worries

This occurs during wider concerns about industry interference with medical guidelines. In recent weeks, international health experts issued a warning that the tobacco industry was increasing attempts to undermine international regulations.

“There is proof of corporate influence globally. Tobacco company fingerprints are on delayed tax increases in Indonesia, stalled legislation in Zambia and even a compromised resolution at the UN international gathering,” said Jorge Alday.

Potential consequences

“Should anti-smoking legislation doesn't get enacted because of this letter, the price could be paid in lives of people who might possibly give up cigarettes.”

The public health measure progressing through Zambia’s parliament includes proposals to go further UK legislation by extending coverage to e-cigarettes, and requiring that pictorial cautions cover three-quarters of product packaging.

Business countermeasures

In the letter, the corporation proposes this be decreased to 30% or 50% “following international suggested parameters”, delayed for at least twelve months after the legislation is approved.

The WHO actually suggests a warning should cover at least fifty percent of the front of a pack “and attempt to encompass as much of the principal display areas as possible”. Within Britain, warnings need to encompass sixty-five percent of a cigarette pack surfaces.

Flavor restrictions debate

The corporation requests the withdrawal of extensive controls on flavoured tobacco products, suggesting that it would drive users to “illegally traded” products. The corporation recommends banning a limited selection of “tastes inspired by desserts, candy, energy drinks, soft drinks and alcohol drinks”. All flavoured cigarettes have been banned in the UK since 2020.

The proposed legislation suggests penalties for different infractions “extending from a portion of yearly revenue to 10 years’ imprisonment”.

Business explanation

Via documentation, the corporate leader of British American Tobacco Zambia claims the corporation is focused on responsible corporate conduct” and “supports the objectives of governments to decrease cigarette consumption and the related medical consequences” but claims that “certain measures can have undesirable and unforeseen outcomes.”

Critic response

The advocate stated BAT’s proposed changes 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 operated within the UK, where BAT is headquartered, was “utter hypocrisy itself”, he said.

“We exist in a international community. Should I grow cigarettes in my back yard and gather the crop and market the products – and my offspring don't use tobacco, but my neighbour’s children do … to profit individually and all the subsequent offspring while my neighbour’s children are perishing … is in itself complete moral collapse.”

Tobacco control legislation in the UK or elsewhere had failed to shutter businesses, Chimbala said. “Regulations don't close the industry. Measures simply defend the people.”

Official corporate statement

The corporate communicator commented: “The corporation runs its operations according with relevant national regulations. Further, the company participates in the nation's lawmaking procedures in line with the appropriate structures which provide for interested party involvement in legislation creation.”

The firm positioned itself as “not against rules”, the representative commented, noting that young individuals should be safeguarded against acquiring smoking products and nicotine.

“We support evolving legislation to achieve intended community wellbeing objectives, while accepting the variety of entitlements and duties on industry, consumers and related stakeholders,” the representative explained, mentioning that the company's suggestions “reflect the realities of the Zambian market and cigarette sector, which encompasses growing volumes of illicit trade”.

The nation's ministry of trade, commerce and industry was solicited for statement.