SA ranks 60th in global illicit trade index.
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GUEST - Philippe Van Gils, Director of Illicit Trade Prevention at Philip Morris International.
Illicit trade remains one of the most persistent and damaging challenges to South Africa’s economic stability and governance. Despite being Africa’s most industrialized economy and a key player in global platforms like the G20 and BRICS, South Africa continues to grapple with widespread illicit activities spanning sectors such as alcohol, tobacco, pharmaceuticals, and mining. The 2025 TRACIT Strategic Review paints a sobering picture: illicit trade is costing the country billions annually, undermining legitimate businesses, draining public revenues, and deepening societal inequalities.
In this conversation we aim to explore how South Africa’s resilience compares globally, where it ranks 60th out of 158 countries, and discuss whether recent reforms are enough to turn the tide.
Illicit trade remains one of the most persistent and damaging challenges to South Africa’s economic stability and governance. Despite being Africa’s most industrialized economy and a key player in global platforms like the G20 and BRICS, South Africa continues to grapple with widespread illicit activities spanning sectors such as alcohol, tobacco, pharmaceuticals, and mining. The 2025 TRACIT Strategic Review paints a sobering picture: illicit trade is costing the country billions annually, undermining legitimate businesses, draining public revenues, and deepening societal inequalities.
In this conversation we aim to explore how South Africa’s resilience compares globally, where it ranks 60th out of 158 countries, and discuss whether recent reforms are enough to turn the tide.