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Critics have charged British American Tobacco with “utter hypocrisy” for opposing anti-smoking regulations in Africa that currently exist in the UK.

Campaign in Zambia

Correspondence acquired by reporters sent from the company’s subsidiary in Zambia to the nation's political leaders asks for plans to ban tobacco advertising and sponsorship to be scrapped or postponed.

The tobacco firm seeks amendments to a pending law that include reductions in the recommended coverage of graphic health warnings on cigarette packaging, the removal of restrictions on flavoured tobacco products, and watered-down penalties for any firms breaking the new laws.

Health advocate reaction

“If I was a politician, I would say that they allow the safeguarding of the British people and perpetuate the death of the Zambian people,” stated the health advocate.

Over seven thousand citizens a year succumb to tobacco-related illnesses, according to World Health Organization estimates.

The campaigner stated the letter was understood to have been copied to several government departments and was in circulation among civil society groups.

Global industry interference concerns

This occurs during expanded apprehension about corporate intervention with medical guidelines. Recently, international health experts raised concerns that the cigarette manufacturers was increasing attempts to undermine international regulations.

“Evidence exists of industry lobbying globally. Manufacturer hallmarks are on delayed tax increases in Indonesia, delayed regulations in Zambia and even a compromised resolution at the UN high-level meeting,” stated Jorge Alday.

Potential consequences

“When public health regulation fails to be approved because of this letter, the consequences may be suffered in individuals' health who might otherwise quit smoking.”

The anti-smoking legislation going through Zambia’s parliament includes regulations surpassing UK legislation by also applying to e-cigarettes, and mandating that pictorial cautions cover seventy-five percent of product packaging.

Corporate counter-proposals

Through correspondence, the corporation proposes this be reduced to 30% or 50% “according to global recommended threshold”, postponed for minimum 12 months after the bill passes.

The WHO specifically advises a warning should cover at least half of the product container front “and aim to cover as much of the main visible surfaces as possible”. Across the United Kingdom, warnings are required to occupy sixty-five percent of a packet’s front and back.

Scented product controversy

The company seeks the withdrawal of extensive controls on scented smoking items, arguing that it would lead smokers to “illegally traded” products. The company proposes banning a limited selection of “scents derived from desserts, candy, energy drinks, soft drinks and alcohol drinks”. Each flavored smoking item have been banned in the UK since 2020.

The draft bill proposes sanctions for various offences “extending from a percentage of annual turnover to ten-year jail sentences”.

Business explanation

Through correspondence, the corporate leader of the Zambian branch states the corporation is focused on responsible corporate conduct” and “backs the goals of governments to reduce smoking incidence and the connected wellbeing effects” but asserts that “specific rules can have unwelcome and unexpected consequences.”

Critic response

The campaigner argued BAT’s proposed changes would “undermine this law so much that the impact needed for it to produce permanent improvement in society will not be achieved”.

The circumstance that numerous similar measures were present in the UK, where the corporation is based, was “total double standard”, he said.

“We live in a international community. When I cultivate smoking products in my garden and harvest that and sell it out – and my family members avoid tobacco, but my community's youth consumes … to profit individually and all the subsequent offspring while my community's youth are dying … is in itself absolute spiritual collapse.”

Public health laws in the Britain or other nations had not caused companies to close, the advocate mentioned. “Regulations don't close the industry. Measures simply defend the people.”

Official corporate statement

A BAT Zambia spokesperson said: “BAT Zambia conducts its activities following with applicable local laws. Further, the firm contributes in the state's regulatory development in line with the suitable systems which allow for relevant group engagement in policymaking.”

The company was “not resisting legislation”, they said, noting that minors should be protected from obtaining cigarettes and nicotine.

“We advocate for progressive regulation to accomplish desired population health targets, while recognizing the range of privileges and responsibilities on industry, consumers and related stakeholders,” the spokesperson stated, mentioning that BAT’s proposals “mirror the circumstances of the Zambian market and cigarette sector, which encompasses rising levels of illicit trade”.

The nation's ministry of economic activities and commercial operations was solicited for statement.