A smokers' lobby group has claimed any attempt to ban or limit the sale of tobacco would drive consumers underground.
It comes as the Health Service Executive (HSE) is to look into whether people would support a 20% tax hike on cigarettes every year.
It is launching a survey in the new year which will ask if there should be a complete ban on the sale of tobacco.
The research will also examine support for a large reduction in the number of places allowed to sell tobacco products.
Other measures to be considered include banning the sale of tobacco products near schools and universities and reducing the nicotine content of them.
John Mallon is spokesperson for smokers' group Forest Ireland. He says any such attempt will create more illicit trade.
"Any form of prohibition would drive consumers underground and into the arms of criminal gangs.
"Ireland already has a huge problem with illicit trade. This would make it far worse."
He also believes such a move by the Government would go to far.
"The Government has no right to intervene to this extent - tobacco is a legal product and many adults enjoy smoking.
"Future generations of adults should have an equal right to choose to smoke, just as many adults will choose to drink alcohol.
"Governments have a duty to inform consumers about the health risks of smoking or drinking but beyond that it's a matter for the individual.
"Any attempt to impose further restrictions on tobacco will be fiercely resisted," he adds.
It comes as New Zealand plans to ban smoking for younger people.
The country is to introduce laws that will mean young people will soon be banned from legally buying cigarettes.
People aged 14 and under in 2027, when the law comes into effect, will be not be able to purchase cigarettes - while the level of nicotine in cigarettes available to older people will be reduced.
The number of retailers allowed to sell cigarettes could also be cut dramatically as part of the proposals.
