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British American Tobacco has been accused of “utter hypocrisy” for campaigning against tobacco control measures in Africa that currently exist in the UK.

African regulatory opposition

Documents seen by journalists originating from the corporation's branch in Zambia to the country’s government ministers requests plans to ban tobacco advertising and sponsorship to be canceled or deferred.

The corporation is pursuing modifications of a draft bill that include reductions in the suggested dimensions of visual health alerts on cigarette packaging, the withdrawal of controls on flavoured tobacco products, and reduced sanctions for any firms breaking the new laws.

Anti-tobacco campaigner response

“Were I in government, I would say that they enable the defense of the British people and sustain the fatalities of the Zambian people,” commented the health advocate.

Thousands of residents a year succumb to tobacco-related illnesses, according to World Health Organization estimates.

The advocate mentioned the letter was known to have been circulated to multiple official agencies and was in distribution within civil society groups.

Worldwide lobbying patterns

This occurs during wider concerns about industry interference with health policies. Last month, WHO officials issued a warning that the smoking product companies was increasing attempts to dilute worldwide restrictions.

“We see evidence of business advocacy globally. Tobacco company fingerprints are on postponed duty hikes in Indonesia, halted laws in Zambia and even a compromised resolution at the UN international gathering,” said the tobacco industry watchdog.

Potential consequences

“If a tobacco control measure isn’t passed because of this letter, the price could be paid in individuals' health who might possibly give up cigarettes.”

The anti-smoking legislation progressing through Zambia’s parliament includes proposals to go further UK legislation by also applying to e-cigarettes, and stipulating that graphic health warnings cover 75% of product packaging.

Business countermeasures

Through correspondence, the company recommends this be lowered to less than half “following international recommended threshold”, deferred for no less than twelve months after the bill passes.

The WHO in fact recommends a caution must occupy at least half of the product container front “and aim to cover as much of the main visible surfaces as possible”. Within Britain, warnings need to encompass nearly two-thirds of a packet’s front and back.

Scented product controversy

The company seeks the withdrawal of extensive controls on flavoured tobacco products, arguing that it would drive users to “black market” products. The corporation recommends restricting fewer varieties of “scents derived from desserts, candy, energy drinks, soft drinks and alcohol drinks”. Each flavored smoking item have been prohibited in Britain since 2020.

The proposed legislation recommends punishments for multiple violations “varying from a portion of yearly revenue to ten-year jail sentences”.

Company justification

Via documentation, the company executive of the Zambian branch claims the company is dedicated to responsible corporate conduct” and “endorses the aims of governments to lower tobacco use and the connected wellbeing effects” but claims that “certain measures can have unwelcome and unexpected consequences.”

Activist reaction

Chimbala said BAT’s proposed changes would “weaken this legislation so much that the required influence for it to create lasting transformation in society will not be achieved”.

The reality that many such provisions existed in the UK, where BAT is headquartered, was “complete contradiction”, he commented.

“We reside in a global village. If I plant tobacco in my garden and gather the crop and sell it out – and my offspring don't use tobacco, but my neighbour’s children do … to benefit personally and all the future family lines while my neighbor's family are perishing … is in itself absolute spiritual failure.”

Tobacco control legislation in the UK or elsewhere had not caused companies to close, Chimbala said. “Laws don't eliminate the industry. They merely safeguard the people.”

Formal company response

A BAT Zambia spokesperson stated: “The company operates its business in compliance with relevant national regulations. Moreover, the corporation engages in the country’s legislative process in line with the suitable systems which allow for relevant group engagement in policymaking.”

The company was “not against rules”, the spokesperson stated, mentioning that minors should be shielded from obtaining cigarettes and nicotine.

“We champion progressive regulation to achieve intended community wellbeing objectives, while accepting the variety of rights and obligations on corporations, customers and associated groups,” the representative explained, noting that BAT’s proposals “represent the situation of the African nation's economy and tobacco industry, which involves growing volumes of illicit trade”.

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