Tobacco Tax Hikes Enacted In Israel

Israel's finance minister approved a tax increase on tobacco products to encourage smoking cessation. The new tax rates result in higher taxes on cigarettes and e-cigarettes. For example, the tax on cigarettes will rise from 270% plus 444.03 shekels per 1,000 cigarettes to 524.50 shekels. E-cigarette taxes will also increase by at least 145%, with an additional cost per milliliter. Unprocessed tobacco and e-cigarette products will face higher purchase taxes. Tobacco used in cigarettes will be taxed at 113.39 shekels per kilogram. The changes took effect at midnight on Sunday until Monday, with further e-cigarette tax increases slated for July 1.