State Council: Cut off the supply chain of fake raw materials and machinery for tobacco production, establish a sound supervision system for the entire chain and process of tobacco production and operation.

On December 18, the General Office of the State Council issued the "Opinions on Comprehensive Crackdown on Illegal Activities Related to Tobacco." The "Opinions" pointed out the need to cut off the supply chain of counterfeit tobacco raw materials and machinery. It also called for the establishment of a comprehensive supervision system for the entire chain and process of tobacco production and operation, strengthening the management of tobacco germplasm resources, tobacco seed sales, and regulations on tobacco planting, procurement, sales, and import and export management. Additionally, it emphasized the need to strengthen supervision of the production and sale of raw materials and tobacco machinery, strict disposal management of abandoned and confiscated tobacco products, and increased crackdown on illegal operations related to cigarette paper, filter rods, tobacco yarn, tobacco-specific machinery, and infringement of intellectual property rights related to tobacco products. The aim is to effectively prevent tobacco leaves, shredded tobacco, raw materials, and tobacco machinery from flowing into counterfeit production sites. Furthermore, strict management of key personnel in the tobacco industry and retirees involved in illegal activities was also highlighted. The document covers various aspects related to cracking down on illegal activities related to tobacco, including but not limited to tackling counterfeit production, smuggling, and distribution both domestically and internationally. It also emphasizes the need to prevent the illegal storage, transportation, and distribution of tobacco products, strengthen the regulation and enforcement in the distribution and retail sector, crackdown on illegal sales of tobacco products on the internet, as well as strengthen the control of illegal activities related to electronic cigarettes. The document also emphasizes the importance of enhancing support and protection measures, such as improving laws and policies, standards, technical equipment support, and professional law enforcement capacity. Overall, the document outlines a comprehensive strategy to combat illegal activities related to tobacco production and distribution, aiming to maintain the integrity of the tobacco industry, protect consumers, and uphold national interests.