Possibility of Increasing Cigarette Tax in South Korea

Regulations by 2FIRSTS.ai

Jan.17.2024

Possibility of Increasing Cigarette Tax in South Korea

South Korea considers raising cigarette taxes as prices have remained stagnant for 9 years, prompting widespread discussions.

According to recent reports from South Korean media, cigarette prices in the country have remained stagnant at 4,500 Korean won (approximately 27 Chinese yuan) for nine consecutive years, sparking widespread discussions on increasing tobacco taxes.

Despite Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance, Zhao Sang-hun, stating at a personnel hearing recently that "there are no plans to increase it," it appears that the current cigarette prices are actually trending downward when compared to the soaring inflation. Therefore, it seems that an increase in tobacco tax is only a matter of time.

In addition, due to the rising costs, the profits of the cigarette industry are also shrinking, hence the possibility of increasing tobacco taxes is quite high. In this regard, the academic community has proposed a plan to gradually increase tobacco taxes each year, aiming to raise cigarette prices to a range of 10,000 to 20,000 Korean won per pack by 2030.

In the debate on the increase in tobacco taxes, some arguments suggest that a price of 10,000 Korean won is too high, and 8,000 Korean won is an acceptable level, which also aligns with the average cigarette prices in OECD countries.

References:

[1] '담뱃값, 정말 1만 원까지?'.. 4,500원이 8,000원 vs 1만 원 인상설, 나오는 이유는

Also Read:

[1] Challenges Ahead for South Korea's Anti-Smoking Plan

[2] HAKA Introduces Four New Disposable E-cigarette Flavors

#Traditional tobacco #Legislation #Asia #South Korea #E-cigarette Taxes

We welcome news tips, article submissions, interview requests, or comments on this piece.

Please contact us at info@2firsts.com, or reach out to Alan Zhao, CEO of 2Firsts, on LinkedIn

Notice

1. This article is intended solely for professional research purposes related to industry, technology, and policy. Any references to brands or products are made purely for objective description and do not constitute any form of endorsement, recommendation, or promotion by 2Firsts.

2. The use of nicotine-containing products — including, but not limited to, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, nicotine pouchand heated tobacco products — carries significant health risks. Users are responsible for complying with all applicable laws and regulations in their respective jurisdictions.

3. This article is not intended to serve as the basis for any investment decisions or financial advice. 2Firsts assumes no direct or indirect liability for any inaccuracies or errors in the content.

4. Access to this article is strictly prohibited for individuals below the legal age in their jurisdiction.

Copyright

This article is either an original work created by 2Firsts or a reproduction from third-party sources with proper attribution. All copyrights and usage rights belong to 2Firsts or the original content provider. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or any other form of unauthorized use by any individual or organization is strictly prohibited. Violators will be held legally accountable.

For copyright-related inquiries, please contact: info@2firsts.com

AI Assistance Disclaimer

This article may have been enhanced using AI tools to improve translation and editorial efficiency. However, due to technical limitations, inaccuracies may occur. Readers are encouraged to refer to the cited sources for the most accurate information.

We welcome any corrections or feedback. Please contact us at: info@2firsts.com

Over 179,000 E-Cigarettes Destroyed in Samut Prakan as Thai Government Tightens Enforcement

Thailand’s Office of the Prime Minister, led by Minister Santi Piyatat, has destroyed nearly 179,000 confiscated e-cigarettes and accessories worth 33 million baht (approx. USD 1,020,000) as part of the government’s ongoing campaign for a “Vape-Free Thai Society.”Officials said the action demonstrates Thailand’s strict enforcement of anti-vaping laws and its commitment to protecting youth and public health.

Nov.27 by 2FIRSTS.ai

Spain’s new e-cigarette e-liquid tax, in force since April 1, raises €26 million through November

Spain’s Tax Agency monthly collection report shows the new tax on e-cigarette e-liquids, in force since April 1, raised €26 million through November, including €4 million in November. The levy began three months later than the usual fiscal timetable to allow the sector to adapt, making 2025 the first year in which vaping products are taxed under a specific category.

Dec.30 by 2FIRSTS.ai

Product | Differences in Configuration and Indicator Methods: Three UWELL G5 Series Devices Launch on U.S. and U.K. Channels

UWELL has launched three models in its Caliburn G5 Lite series across U.S. and U.K. channels, using indicator lights or breathing lights to display device status. Compared with the earlier G4 series, the new G5 Lite lineup continues a screenless design and increases battery capacity to 1,600mAh. The three devices also share the same core specifications, including e-liquid capacity, maximum power output, and pod compatibility.

Dec.10 by 2FIRSTS.ai

Uruguay Weighs Ban on Nicotine Pouches as Health Ministry Warns of Growing Use

Nicotine pouches, promoted as flavored, smoke-free alternatives, are spreading in Uruguay despite the absence of a formal market. The Ministry of Public Health is considering banning them by decree and has raised the issue within Mercosur and at COP11. Health Minister Cristina Lustemberg warns that the industry is pushing new nicotine products to normalize consumption among youth.