Germany hikes taxes on tobacco, sugar and alcohol
Germany has approved higher taxes on cigarettes, sugary drinks and spirits to generate billions in revenue and improve public health. The new levies will take effect starting in 2027, drawing criticism from opposition lawmakers.
Germany approved tax hikes on tobacco, sugary drinks, and alcohol on Thursday afternoon, raising more than €12 billion ($13.5 billion) through the end of the decade. The revenue package offsets federal health insurance cuts while targeting consumer habits. Lawmakers finalized measures that will push the average cigarette pack price above €11 by 2030.
