Proposal to set maximum cigarette price at Tk 35, minimum at Tk 17

The National Heart Foundation and the United Forum Against Tobacco have proposed setting the price per cigarette stick at a minimum of Tk 17 and a maximum of Tk 35 from the upcoming 2026-27 fiscal year.

The organisations made the proposal at a press conference at the National Press Club on Monday, May 11.

They said the significant price hike is being recommended to protect the youth from the harmful effects of smoking, reduce premature deaths, and increase government revenue.

Under the proposal, a premium-level pack of 10 sticks priced at Tk 200 would cost approximately Tk 35 per cigarette. The proposed price per stick for the high tier would be approximately Tk 25.45. Prices for the medium and low tiers would be increased to approximately Tk 17 per stick.

If implemented, the price increase would encourage approximately five lakh adults to quit smoking and deter several lakh young people from starting, health experts said at the press conference. Tobacco tax revenue for the government would also significantly increase.

Public health expert Dr Mushtaq Hossain said smoking is causing a rise in cancer and respiratory diseases. Many families are facing economic hardship due to costly medical treatment, making a price hike necessary in the public interest.