The Chinese government has launched a comprehensive nationwide initiative to combat tobacco-related illegal activities through newly published guidelines. Released by the General Office of the State Council on December 19, 2025, these measures represent a significant escalation in China’s efforts to regulate its tobacco market and protect national economic interests.
The multifaceted guidelines target various aspects of tobacco illegality, including rigorous enforcement against counterfeit Chinese tobacco brands being produced and sold overseas. The policy mandates strengthened interception measures to prevent illicit tobacco products from entering or transiting through Chinese territory, addressing both domestic and cross-border tobacco crimes.
A key focus involves preventing the geographical spread or relocation of counterfeit tobacco production operations. The guidelines specifically call for intensified crackdowns on the illegal storage, transportation, and delivery networks that support tobacco-related criminal enterprises.
The digital dimension of tobacco enforcement receives particular attention, with directives to eliminate illegal online tobacco sales and prohibit unauthorized production and distribution channels. The guidelines further emphasize the development of enhanced support mechanisms to bolster the nationwide campaign against tobacco-related illegal activities, suggesting increased resources and coordination between enforcement agencies.
This policy initiative aims to continuously improve market order within China’s tobacco sector while safeguarding both national fiscal interests and consumer rights from the detrimental effects of illicit tobacco trade.