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

Philip Morris International Restructures to Drive Its Smoke-Free Transformation

Philip Morris International (PMI) announced a new organizational model effective January 1, 2026, creating two main business units — PMI International and PMI U.S. — to accelerate its smoke-free strategy. The restructuring replaces four regional segments with three: International Smoke-Free, International Combustibles, and U.S., enhancing agility, governance, and long-term growth in reduced-risk products.

Nov.05 by 2FIRSTS.ai

Mexico moves to advance reforms regulating e-cigarettes and vapes

Mexico’s Chamber of Deputies Health Committee is expected to vote next week on reforms to the General Health Law that would regulate the prohibition, distribution, and sale of electronic cigarettes, vapes, and certain toxic substances, including fentanyl. Lawmakers from Morena insist the legislation must avoid loopholes and resist pressure from the tobacco industry.

Nov.21 by 2FIRSTS.ai

U.S. FDA Includes Cytisinicline for Vaping Addiction in National Priority Voucher Program, Shortens Review to 1–2 Months

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has added Cytisinicline, a plant-based therapy developed by Achieve Life Sciences for nicotine vaping addiction, to its new National Priority Voucher (CNPV) program. The initiative shortens drug review timelines from 10–12 months to just 1–2 months, expediting approval for treatments that address major public health needs.

Oct.20 by 2FIRSTS.ai

Pakistan Advances E-Cigarette Legislation: Proposed Minor Sales Ban, Limits on Public Use and Ads

A Pakistani senator has introduced a bill to ban sales of e-cigarettes and e-shisha to under-18s, prohibit their use in public places, and restrict advertising, promotions, and sponsorships to limit youth exposure to nicotine products.