Cyprus Senior Customs Official Leads Global Effort Against Illicit Tobacco Trade
Eliza Fantidou, a senior customs official from Cyprus, has been chairing the Meeting of the Parties to the Protocol to Eliminate Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products since November 2025. This protocol, now with 73 participating countries, marks its eighth year in force and provides an international framework for cooperation against cross-border tobacco smuggling.
Fantidou emphasized that illicit tobacco trade evolves constantly, likening it to a Hydra—cutting off one head causes many more to emerge. She highlighted the importance of collective action across sectors and strong international collaboration, noting that the protocol equips parties with the tools necessary to combat this global issue effectively.
The eight-year milestone is celebrated under the theme "More Parties – Stronger Implementation – Greater International Cooperation," urging more countries to join and reinforce efforts. Coordination between customs, tax authorities, police, and law enforcement remains vital to prevent, detect, investigate, and prosecute illicit tobacco trade, which undermines public health and government revenues worldwide.
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