From 1 January 2024, the excise tax rate on cigarettes and other tobacco products in Turkmenistan has been increased from 116% of the customs value to 145%. The relevant amendments to the Tax Code were published in the local press.
Turkmenistan intends to become a tobacco-free territory by 2025, according to the local Ministry of Health. The relevant activities have been carried out since 2012 under a special Framework Convention of the World Health Organisation (WHO).
During this period, local authorities have banned cigarette advertising, restricted smoking in public places and regularly raise excise taxes on tobacco products. According to WHO data from 2021, the number of smokers in Turkmenistan was 4% of the adult population. This compares to 9% in Uzbekistan, 15% in Kazakhstan and 27% in Russia.
In addition, since 2008, nasvay has been strictly banned in Turkmenistan: its production and sale is punishable by up to a year in prison and a heavy fine for users.
This artisanal nicotine potion, usually made from lime and bird droppings, is widespread in Central Asia. Some doctors consider it a mild drug and a cause of cancer.
Eziz Boyarov
Comments (0)