An upward trend in cigarette and tobacco product prices ranging from two to four denars arises from amendments to the excise tax law passed in October of the current year. These revisions aim to align cigarette excise rates with the EU’s minimum standards and bring the total excise tax share in line with EU directives. Additionally, the proposed law includes adjustments to the sections on alcohol in the Excise Tax Law, following a 2020 directive for harmonizing alcohol excise structures.

Starting from January 1, 2024, until January 1, 2030, there will be an annual increment of MKD 0.23 per cigarette in both specific and minimum excise taxes as per the law amendments.