Amid ongoing concerns over Malaysia’s illicit cigarette trade and its impact on government revenue, Dr. Veerinderjeet Singh, Senior Advisor on Tax Policy at KPMG in Malaysia, highlighted the need for more coordinated and innovative enforcement approaches beyond traditional measures. While he noted that the country is estimated to lose around RM5 billion annually in uncollected excise duties, Dr. Veerinderjeet added that addressing price gaps between legal and illicit products, alongside broader affordability considerations, will be important in supporting efforts to reduce smuggling and strengthen fiscal outcomes.
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