British American Tobacco (BAT) has cautioned the South African government for several years about the potential cessation of its production in the country due to rampant illegal cigarette sales. Bloomberg posted on X that the company's CEO emphasized the need for decisive action to curb the illicit trade, which has significantly impacted the legal market. The warning highlights the ongoing challenges faced by legitimate businesses in South Africa's tobacco industry, as they contend with the financial strain caused by the illegal market. BAT's concerns underscore the broader economic implications of unchecked illicit activities on the country's economy.