Smuggling

Smuggling generally arises when high taxes, tariffs or prohibitions create a demand for goods that official channels over-regulate. This illicit trade involves the clandestine movement of goods such as playing cards to bypass or evade these controls.

The potential for significant profit by undercutting official prices, or a defiance of state control, lead smugglers to exploit geographical routes and weak enforcement to evade detection. The existence of a thriving black market is often a direct consequence of restrictive policies and strong consumer demand.

• See Taxation on playing cards►