Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Egypt Independent
Published on 2024-02-15 09:52:09
Six companies have officially announced cigarette price increases in Egypt, ranging from eight to ten Egyptian pounds per pack. The head of the Tobacco and Cigarettes Division, Ibrahim Imbabi, made the announcement on Thursday, stating that the increase has been applied as of Wednesday. The companies that have implemented the price increases include Philip Morris Egypt, Al-Mansour International Tobacco Distribution Company, and Winston.
Philip Morris Egypt revealed a new price list for all of its heated tobacco products – “HEETS” and “TEREA” – as well as traditional cigarettes from the brands “Merit, Marlboro, and L&M”. The Al-Mansour International Tobacco Distribution Company also set the value of the new increase in cigarette prices, which ranged from two to ten Egyptian pounds for the “Davidoff, Time, and Manchester” cigarettes. Additionally, Winston’s cigarette prices have increased by five to seven Egyptian pounds across local stores.
In television statements, Ibrahim Imbabi mentioned that both Eastern Tobacco and Global have not announced their new prices despite their intention to raise prices.
The price increases in the cigarette industry have sparked discussions and reactions among consumers and stakeholders. Many are concerned about the impact of these increases on public health, as higher prices may discourage smoking and reduce consumption. Others worry about the financial burden on smokers, especially those with lower incomes.
The tobacco industry in Egypt has been facing various challenges, including stricter regulations, public health campaigns, and increasing awareness about the harmful effects of smoking. These factors have contributed to a decline in tobacco consumption in recent years.
However, the industry continues to be a significant source of revenue for the Egyptian government and a major employer in the country. The price increases announced by the six companies may have been driven by a combination of factors, including changes in taxation, production costs, and market demand.
It is essential for the government to closely monitor the impact of these price increases on smoking rates and public health. Policy interventions, such as tobacco control measures and support for smoking cessation programs, can complement price increases in reducing tobacco consumption and improving public health outcomes.
In conclusion, the recent cigarette price increases announced by six companies in Egypt have stimulated discussions about the potential effects on public health and consumer behavior. As the tobacco industry continues to evolve in response to changing market dynamics and regulations, it is crucial for the government to implement comprehensive strategies to address tobacco use and its impact on society. Balancing the interests of the industry, public health, and consumers will be a key consideration in navigating the complex landscape of tobacco control.
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