Spain's Tobacco Tax Hike To 'Compensate Government'

 

Tobacco and cigarette tax increases, introduced to coincide with Spain's new anti-smoking laws which come into effect in the new year, are expected to contribute an additional €780 million for the government.

Elena Salgado, the Minister for Trade and Economy, stated that this tax would not only be part of the new anti-smoking laws and play it's part in helping to reduce the health issues assciated with smoking, but would contribute towards the €230 million in tax cuts that the government had already created for small and medium sized companies (PYMES).

Many brands of cigarettes have already increased by as much as 40 cents for a packet of 20, with certain premium brands now selling at €4.25.