China Issues Guidelines to Combat Tobacco Crimes Involving Virtual Currencies

China’s State Council outlines measures to stop tobacco smuggling via virtual currency transactions, targeting transport, international parcels, and foreign-registered websites.

VIRTUAL

Summary

China’s State Council General Office has issued new guidelines to combat tobacco-related violations, specifically addressing cross-border smuggling operations involving virtual currency transactions. The measures focus on monitoring transport channels, tightening controls on international parcels, and restricting the use of foreign-registered websites linked to illicit tobacco trade.

Terms & Concepts
  • Virtual currency: A digital form of money not issued by a government, used for online transactions and potentially in illicit trade.
  • State Council: China's chief administrative authority responsible for issuing national policy and guidelines.
  • Customs risk control: Procedures to identify and mitigate potential threats in goods entering or leaving a country.