Germany to raise tobacco tax, targeting almost €12 per pack by 2030
The German government’s coalition plans to raise the tobacco tax more sharply than originally scheduled. Under the proposed amendment the average price of a 20‑cigarette pack would rise from about €8 today to €9.10 in 2027, €9.91 in 2028, €10.81 in 2029 and €11.78 by 2030 – roughly €12 per pack. The higher tax rate would lift the tobacco‑tax component from roughly €4 per pack to €6.19 in 2030 and generate an extra €800 million in federal revenue each year, totalling about €4.5 billion by 2030. Officials say the measure serves two goals: closing a budget gap and strengthening public‑health protection by lowering smoking rates, especially among youths. A Forsa poll cited by several outlets showed 70 % of Germans favour the increase. Health experts such as Hendrik Streeck welcomed the plan, saying, “Meinetwegen kann die Tabaksteuer noch höher gehen.” Opponents, including the tobacco lobby, warn that higher prices could boost black‑market sales. The government stresses that the additional funds will help stabilise the statutory health‑insurance system and support hospital financing.