Time to get real on taxing cigarettes and restricting vapes
August 25, 2025 by johnmenadue.com
Time to get real on taxing cigarettes and restricting vapes
Australia has the world's priciest cigarettes due to a 340% excise increase over 20 years. However, this led to a rise in illegal cigarette consumption. Economist Chris Richardson estimates a yearly $10 billion loss in government revenue. Vaping restrictions and high tobacco prices fuel a violent black market, contrasting with New Zealand's successful vape policies. Political parties overlook this issue while tobacco companies shift to safer products. Australia debates harm reduction, lacking evidence against vaping's benefits. Following New Zealand's lead could curb the black market.
11.00% of the adult population are current smokers. There are approximately 2.4 million current smokers in Australia 12.90% of men are current smokers but only 9.30% of women.
SOURCE: GSTHR
