Bundestag passes increase in tobacco tax

On October 20, 2023, the Bundestag voted in favor of an increase in tobacco tax. The coalition factions from the Union and SPD supported the legislative amendment, which outlines a gradual rise in the tax over the next four years.

With this measure, lawmakers aim to increase revenue from tobacco tax. According to reports, the tax on tobacco products is set to rise steadily in the coming years. The price of cigarettes, currently about eight euros, is expected to increase accordingly.

The Bundesrat also approved the draft legislation. This means that the decision has received support from the federal states, allowing the implementation of the tobacco tax increase to proceed in the near future.

The Federal Government's Drug Commissioner, Streeck, expressed positive sentiments toward the measure, highlighting its protective function for children and adolescents. The increase in tax is expected to reduce the harm caused by tobacco use, which claims more than 130,000 lives each year.

The measure has generated significant public interest, as millions of people in Germany smoke and the tobacco tax contributes considerably to the federal budget. The increased prices are expected to directly impact consumers.

The increase in tobacco tax is also seen as part of a broader health policy approach aimed at reducing tobacco consumption and promoting public health. Further steps in this regard may follow in the coming months.