Cigarette Prices Soar Up to Rs 55 Per Pack After Excise Duty Hike

• Cigarette prices have increased by Rs 22-25 per pack of 10 sticks due to additional excise duty implemented from Sunday, February 1.
• Premium cigarettes (76 mm) will now cost Rs 50-55 more per pack, with popular brands like Wills Navy Cut (76 mm) rising from Rs 95 to Rs 120.
• Longer cigarettes (84 mm) such as Gold Flake Lights and Wills Classic will see prices jump from Rs 170 to Rs 220-225 per pack.
• Distributors fear the price hikes could lead to increased smuggling and proliferation of counterfeit tobacco products.
• The All India Consumer Products Distributors Federation (AICPDF) warns that sharp tax increases on legal 'sin products' could harm traditional retail outlets.

Why It Matters: Cigarette prices have significantly increased due to new excise duties, raising concerns about illicit trade.