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British American Tobacco has been accused of “complete double standards” for campaigning against tobacco control measures in Africa which are already enforced in the UK.

Zambian lobbying efforts

A letter obtained by media originating from the firm's affiliate in Zambia to the country’s government ministers demands measures restricting tobacco marketing and promotional activities to be canceled or deferred.

The corporation is pursuing amendments to a draft bill that include decreasing the recommended coverage of visual health alerts on cigarette packaging, the elimination of limitations on scented cigarette varieties, and reduced sanctions for any companies violating the new laws.

Health advocate reaction

“Were I in government, I would say that they allow the safeguarding of the British people and continue the mortality of the Zambian people,” said the health advocate.

More than 7,000 Zambians a year die from tobacco-related illnesses, according to global health agency statistics.

The advocate mentioned the letter was believed to have been distributed to several government departments and was in circulating through community advocacy networks.

International corporate influence worries

It comes amid wider concerns about industry interference with public health regulations. Last month, international health experts sounded an alarm that the cigarette manufacturers was intensifying efforts to weaken global control measures.

“We see evidence of corporate influence everywhere. Manufacturer hallmarks are on delayed tax increases in Indonesia, stalled legislation in Zambia and even a compromised resolution at the UN high-level meeting,” stated the tobacco industry watchdog.

Possible outcomes

“When public health regulation fails to be approved because of this letter, the cost might be borne in human lives who might otherwise quit smoking.”

The anti-smoking legislation progressing through Zambia’s parliament includes measures that exceed UK legislation by extending coverage to e-cigarettes, and requiring that pictorial cautions cover three-quarters of product packaging.

Business countermeasures

Via documentation, the corporation proposes this be lowered to 30% or 50% “following international suggested parameters”, delayed for at least twelve months after the bill passes.

Global health authorities in fact recommends a alert needs to encompass at least 50% of the cigarette package face “and aim to cover as much of the primary showing sections as possible”. Within Britain, warnings are required to occupy 65% of a product container sides.

Flavor restrictions debate

The company seeks the withdrawal of extensive controls on flavoured tobacco products, suggesting that it would lead smokers to “illegally traded” products. The corporation recommends banning a limited selection of “tastes inspired by desserts, candy, energy drinks, soft drinks and alcohol drinks”. All flavoured cigarettes have been prohibited in Britain since 2020.

The proposed legislation proposes sanctions for multiple violations “varying from a percentage of annual turnover to a decade in prison”.

Business explanation

In the letter, the company executive of the Zambian branch claims the company is dedicated to responsible corporate conduct” and “supports the objectives of governments to reduce smoking incidence and the associated health impact” but asserts that “some regulations can have undesirable and unforeseen outcomes.”

Campaigner rebuttal

Chimbala said BAT’s proposed changes would “undermine this law so much that the impact needed for it to produce permanent improvement in society will not be achieved”.

The circumstance that many such provisions existed in the UK, where the corporation is based, was “total double standard”, he stated.

“We reside in a connected world. Should I grow cigarettes in my property and gather the crop and market the products – and my offspring don't use tobacco, but my community's youth consumes … to profit individually and all the future family lines while my neighbor's family are succumbing … is in itself complete moral bankruptcy.”

Anti-smoking regulations in the Britain or other nations had not resulted in corporate closures, the campaigner stated. “Regulations don't close the industry. Measures simply defend the people.”

Formal company response

The corporate communicator stated: “The corporation runs its business in compliance with current country statutes. Additionally, the firm contributes in the country’s legislative process in line with the relevant frameworks which enable stakeholder participation in regulation development.”

The firm positioned itself as “not opposed to regulation”, the spokesperson stated, mentioning that underage people should be protected from acquiring smoking products and nicotine.

“We champion developing rules to realize planned population health targets, while accepting the variety of privileges and responsibilities on industry, consumers and related stakeholders,” the representative explained, adding that the company's suggestions “mirror the circumstances of the local commercial environment and tobacco industry, which includes rising levels of black market activity”.

Zambia’s department of trade, commerce and industry was approached for comment.