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

Campaign in Zambia

Correspondence acquired by reporters sent from the company’s subsidiary in Zambia to the African officials requests measures restricting tobacco advertising and sponsorship to be abandoned or delayed.

The company is attempting amendments to a pending law 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 businesses disregarding the new laws.

Anti-tobacco campaigner response

“If I was a politician, I would say that they enable the defense of the British people and sustain the fatalities of the Zambian people,” commented Master Chimbala.

More than 7,000 Zambians a year die from smoking-associated diseases, according to global health agency statistics.

The advocate mentioned the letter was believed to have been distributed to various ministerial offices and was in circulation among public interest organizations.

Global industry interference concerns

This occurs during wider concerns about industry interference with health policies. Recently, WHO officials issued a warning that the cigarette manufacturers was increasing attempts to undermine international regulations.

“There is proof 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 summit conference,” said Jorge Alday.

Potential consequences

“If a tobacco control measure fails to be approved because of this letter, the price could be paid in individuals' health who might potentially stop smoking.”

The public health measure progressing through Zambia’s parliament includes proposals to go further UK legislation by including provisions for e-cigarettes, and mandating that graphic health warnings cover three-quarters of product packaging.

Business countermeasures

Through correspondence, the company recommends this be lowered to less than half “within the WHO-FCTC recommended threshold”, delayed for at least twelve months after the law is enacted.

International experts specifically advises a warning should cover at least fifty percent of the cigarette package face “and aim to cover as much of the main visible surfaces as possible”. In the UK, warnings must cover 65% of a packet’s front and back.

Scented product controversy

The company seeks the elimination of comprehensive limitations on flavoured tobacco products, arguing that it would lead smokers to “black market” products. The corporation recommends banning a limited selection of “tastes inspired by desserts, candy, energy drinks, soft drinks and alcohol drinks”. Every scented tobacco product have been banned in the UK since 2020.

The proposed legislation suggests penalties for multiple violations “extending from a fraction of annual sales to 10 years’ imprisonment”.

Company justification

In the letter, the company executive of the Zambian branch states the firm is “committed to responsible corporate conduct” and “endorses the aims of governments to lower tobacco use and the connected wellbeing effects” but asserts that “certain measures can have unwelcome and unexpected consequences.”

Activist reaction

Chimbala said BAT’s proposed changes would “dilute these regulations so much that the necessary effect for it to cause long-term change in society will not be achieved”.

The circumstance that numerous similar measures operated within the UK, where the company maintains its main office, was “total double standard”, he said.

“We reside in a connected world. When I cultivate smoking products in my property and collect the yield and market the products – and my offspring don't use tobacco, but my neighbor's family uses … to enrich myself and all the generations of my children while my neighbor's family are succumbing … is in itself total emotional collapse.”

Anti-smoking regulations in the Britain or other nations had failed to shutter businesses, the campaigner stated. “Legislation never shuts down the industry. They merely safeguard the people.”

Standard business position

The corporate communicator said: “The company operates its business in compliance with relevant national regulations. Moreover, the firm contributes in the nation's lawmaking procedures in line with the appropriate structures which allow for stakeholder participation in regulation development.”

The corporation remained “not opposed to regulation”, they said, adding that minors should be safeguarded against access to tobacco and nicotine.

“We advocate for progressive regulation to achieve intended public health goals, while accepting the variety of privileges and responsibilities on businesses, users and involved parties,” the spokesperson stated, noting that the company's suggestions “reflect the realities of the local commercial environment and cigarette sector, which encompasses rising levels of illicit trade”.

The nation's ministry of business, commercial affairs and industrial development was approached for comment.