Romania’s annual tobacco excise tax hike takes effect on January 11, 2024, raising cigarette prices by 1 leu per pack. Japan Tobacco International (JTI) is the first manufacturer to implement the new pricing, while other major market players are expected to adjust their rates within days.
JTI Leads Price Adjustments with Competitors Following
JTI’s price adjustments affect several popular brands. Sobranie will now cost 28 lei, Winston rises to 25.50 lei, and Camel will retail between 22 and 22.50 lei. Winchester, JTI’s budget option, reaches 24 lei per pack.
| Brand (JTI) | New Price (Lei) |
|---|---|
| Sobranie | 28.00 |
| Winston | 25.50 |
| Winchester | 24.00 |
| Camel | 22.00 – 22.50 |
Market leaders British American Tobacco (BAT) and Philip Morris have not officially announced changes but are expected to implement similar 1 leu increases by January 15. This follows a trend from 2023, where multiple hikes raised pack prices by approximately 1.50 lei.
