Importation Of Cigarettes

Northern Advocate, 14 June 1949, Page 4

Importation Of Cigarettes

WELLINGTON, Tue. (P-A.)—Licen-ces to import limited quantities of cigarettes are to be granted to New Zealand manufacturers. This was stated by the Minister of Customs (Mr Nash). The Minister said that during 1947 it had appeared that a shortage in supplies of cigarettes was imminent and the Customs Department had issued licences for the importation of substantial quantities. ' Many of the types, imported did not find favour with New Zealand smokers and as a result considerable difficulty was experienced by importers in disposing of certain lines. Recent investigations had shown that the stocks of imported cigarettes would be disposed of in the near 'future and that local production should be supplemented by further supplies from overseas. The indications were that only a small quantity would be required at present and it had been decided that licences to import the necessary supplies should be granted to local manufacturers of cigarettes. This would ensure that only cigarettes which were readily saleable would be imported.