British American Tobacco South Africa is accepting “holding orders” from its customers. News24 reports that smokers have been acquiring illegal cigarettes, at exorbitant prices, illicitly, during the last three months, since tobacco and tobacco products were banned.

The government justified the tobacco ban on health grounds based on advice from its own medical experts as well as from the World Health Organization. The WHO said that although research was still being carried out, there was reason to believe that smokers would be more adversely affected than non-smokers if they contracted Covid-19.

Stores that usually had stocked cigarettes are expecting a rush when the ban is lifted. Some retailers have expressed concern that customers may turn on them if they are unable to meet the demand. According to News24, one retailer has arranged for extra cashiers, change, and even security for July 1, the date he believes the sale of tobacco will become legal again.

There has been no comment from British American Tobacco, however, on when the ban may be lifted. Batsa external affairs head Johnny Moloto said, “No deliveries will be made until the sale of tobacco products is allowed. The date for delivery will depend on when the ban is lifted.”

Umm Muhammed Umar