Dialogos

€7.50 Cigarette Pack – SYKADE Calls for Balanced Taxation

Published February 14, 2026, 12:03
€7.50 Cigarette Pack – SYKADE Calls for Balanced Taxation

The Association of Convenience Stores (SYKADE) warns of a possible increase in the price of a packet of cigarettes to €7.50, as well as an increase in smuggling from the occupied territories, if the proposed changes to the minimum excise duty are implemented. SYKADE submitted documented positions on the impact of the European Commission's proposals at a meeting with the Director of the Customs Department. The Association estimates that the price of a packet of cigarettes could rise from approximately €4.50–€5.00 to €7.00–€7.50, with negative consequences for the legal market and consumer behavior. At the same time, it points out that the consumption of illegal cigarettes from the occupied territories amounts to 13% of total consumption and 53% of tobacco consumption for roll-your-own cigarettes, causing losses of more than €50 million to public funds. SYKADE calls for stricter penalties for the smuggling of tobacco from the occupied territories and the modernization of customs with modern means, especially during checks at the checkpoints. It emphasizes that tax policies must be balanced, documented and effective, so as not to encourage smuggling and undermine the legal market. The Association is also planning a meeting with the Minister of Finance for further discussion of the issue.