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Saturday, Feb 22, 2025
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Hong Kong must raise tobacco tax to ensure it hits reduction target: experts
Smokers say they will quit if the median price for a pack of cigarettes hits HK$100, according to local research.
Bolder steps are needed to reach Hong Kong’s “endgame” of a 5 per cent smoking rate and a midway goal of 7.8 per cent by 2025, including raising the levy on tobacco products, government advisers have said.
Dr Daniel Ho Sai-yin, an associate professor of the University of Hong Kong’s school of public health, suggested doubling the tax on cigarette packs to HK$76 each, which would push the retail price to roughly HK$97.
Ho is also a member of the Hong Kong Council on Smoking and Health, which aims to educate the public and advise and government on the habit.
Dr Daniel Ho Sai-yin, an associate professor of the University of Hong Kong’s school of public health, suggested doubling the tax on cigarette packs to HK$76 each, which would push the retail price to roughly HK$97.
Ho is also a member of the Hong Kong Council on Smoking and Health, which aims to educate the public and advise and government on the habit.
