Kyrgyzstan proposes phased cigarette price hikes

Kyrgyzstan's Ministry of Economy and Commerce is proposing a gradual increase in the minimum wholesale and retail prices for cigarettes, cigarillos, and heated tobacco products. The proposal, currently open for public discussion, aims to curb tobacco consumption and boost public health.

The current minimum price for a pack of cigarettes is 120 som. Under the proposed scheme, this price would remain until the end of 2026. Starting January 1, 2027, the minimum price would rise to 135 som, followed by 150 som in 2028, and finally 165 som in 2029.

Officials state the changes are intended to reduce the consumption of tobacco and nicotine products, improve market regulation, and strengthen public health. The ministry also anticipates that higher minimum prices will lead to increased tax revenues for the state, including VAT, sales tax, and profit tax.

Data from the Ministry of Economy shows a substantial rise in tobacco product consumption and tax contributions. In 2025, 180.1 million excise stamps were issued for tobacco products in Kyrgyzstan, a 19.4 percent increase from 2024. Excise tax revenues also grew by 30.5 percent, reaching 10.8 billion som.