Get ready to pay more: Cigarette prices hike from this date

New Delhi (Uttam Hindu News): If you're a cigarette smoker, this news may come as a shock. The central government has announced a significant increase in excise duty on tobacco and tobacco products. The new rules will come into effect on February 1, 2026. Following this decision, cigarette prices are expected to rise significantly. The amount you'll pay will depend on the brand of cigarette, its length, and the filter.

Biggest tax hike after GST

This is the largest tax imposed on cigarettes since the implementation of GST in 2017. Currently, cigarettes attract a 40% GST, and now additional excise duty will be added. The rule is clear: the longer the cigarette, the higher the tax.

How much tax is now charged on which cigarettes? (per 1000 cigarettes)

As per the new tax slabs that will come into effect from February 1, the excise duty will be as follows:

Non-filter (small): up to 65mm – ₹2,050

Non-filter (large): 65 to 70 mm – ₹3,600

Filter cigarettes (small): up to 65 mm — ₹2,100

Filter cigarettes (medium): 65 to 70 mm – ₹4,000

Filter cigarettes (long/premium): 70 to 75 mm — ₹5,400

Others/Tobacco substitutes: ₹8,500 or 12.5% ​​(whichever is higher).

How much will the price of one cigarette increase?

If we look at the excise duty, it will have a direct impact on the common man's pocket:

Small cigarettes (non-filter): Will be costlier by about Rs 2.05.

Small filter cigarettes: Increase of about Rs 2.10.

Medium cigarettes: May become costlier by Rs 3 to 4.

Premium/Long cigarettes: Increase of up to Rs 5 is possible.

How much are cigarettes that used to cost Rs 10 now?

According to experts, this decision of the government may lead to an increase in cigarette prices by 20% to 50%.

Cigarettes that cost Rs 10 can now be bought for Rs 12.

A cigarette that costs Rs 15 can reach Rs 18 to 19.

Premium cigarettes priced at Rs 20 can cost between Rs 23 and Rs 25.

Premium cigarettes hit hardest

Companies may pass the entire burden of the tax increase on to consumers. This will most impact smokers of premium, long, and flavored cigarettes. The government says the move is aimed at curbing tax evasion in the tobacco market and increasing revenue.