From what i have been reading it seems that several U.S. states have been pressing all the main credit card companies to stop their cards from being used to buy tobacco. Every major credit card company promptly banned buying tobacco from the U.S. Buying from a bricks and mortar shop requires proof of age. It is now a requirement with online buying, which is not possible. At the moment it is a 100% global ban.I believe PApipeguy is correct.
It probably goes a little deeper; into international banking rules.
Probably just too many hoops to jump through.
From: "customerservicecenter" customerservicecenter@mastercard.com>
Sent: Friday, April 08, 2005 2:11 PM
Subject: Re:Other
Thank you for your inquiry to MasterCard International.
We understand your concerns. However, MasterCard prohibits the use of its
cards for any illegal purposes. We have been notified by both federal and
state law enforcement authorities that the internet sale and shipment of
cigarettes to or within the U.S. by certain internet merchants violates
numerous federal and state laws, and we are cooperating with the
authorities to ensure that MasterCard cards are not being used for illegal
purposes.
If you believe such transactions should be legal, we urge you to contact
your elected representatives to urge them to take action.
Best regards,
MasterCard International
Customer Service Center
ej