The economics of $60-plus cigarettes

Australia's sky‑high cigarette taxes have slashed smoking rates - but they have also helped fuel a booming black market for illicit tobacco. Host Carmel Crimmins speaks with Assistant Customs Minister Julian Hill and economist Lachlan Vass on whether Australia’s tobacco excise has overshot its mark - economically and politically.

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Produced by Eliza Davis Beard

Sound engineering and music by Josh Sommer

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Further listening

Trade and Australia (reuters.com/podcasts/trade-australia-2025-04-09)

Tax (reuters.com/podcasts/tax-2024-10-02)

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