Australia Illicit Tobacco Use Soars 150%: Wastewater Study

A University of Queensland study analyzing wastewater samples has confirmed a staggering 150% increase in illicit tobacco consumption across Australia between 2017 and 2023. While overall tobacco use is declining, the market for illegal tobacco and vaping products has surged, likely driven by high taxes and strict legislation on legal products.

Key Takeaways:

Illicit Surge: Illegal tobacco consumption rose from 1,350 to 3,400 tonnes.
Market Shift: Illicit tobacco now makes up 33% of total tobacco use, up from 9%.
Vaping Rise: Nicotine from vapes and other products jumped from 5.4% to 26.3%.
General Decline: Overall nicotine levels decreased, especially in remote areas.

Researchers from the University of Queensland have confirmed a dramatic rise in the consumption of illicit tobacco and vaping products across Australia. This development occurs amidst a general decline in legal tobacco use, directly resulting in concerns that high taxes are driving consumers toward the black market.

Wastewater Analysis Uncovers Hidden Trends

The study, led by Dr. Zhe Wang from the Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences, utilized wastewater samples from 55 treatment plants covering over 50% of the Australian population. The data, collected between 2017 and 2023, paints a complex picture of the nation’s nicotine habits.

While Australia’s aggressive anti-smoking policies have successfully reduced overall nicotine levels, particularly in regional areas, they appear to have inadvertently fueled an underground economy.

Category	2017 Share	2023 Share	Trend
Illicit Tobacco	9%	33%	Significant Increase
Vaping & Alternatives	5.4%	26.3%	Rapid Growth

The Cost of Prohibition?

Dr. Wang noted that illicit tobacco consumption skyrocketed from approximately 1,350 tonnes to 3,400 tonnes over the seven-year period. “There is concern that illegal vaping of tobacco is increasing due to the rising cost of cigarettes,” he explained.

The findings align with the latest ITEC Commissioner’s report, which estimates that half of all tobacco products sold in Australia are now illicit. Associate Professor Phong Thai emphasized that while the decline in general smoking is positive, the booming black market could hinder Australia’s goal of reducing smoking prevalence to 5% or less by 2030.

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Matthew Ma

Marketing at Ecigator

With over a decade of experience in the e-cigarette industry, Matthew Ma is a seasoned expert in both the manufacturing and usage aspects of vaping products. His extensive background has provided him with a deep understanding of the intricacies and evolving dynamics of e-cigarettes.