
Within the next few years prices on cigarettes are going to gradually grow with an average speed of 1.5 -3 rubles ($0.06-0.12) a year...
Within the next few years prices on cigarettes are going to gradually grow with an average speed of 1.5 -3 rubles ($0.06-0.12) a year. It's not much; however, the people don't see this prospect as favourable. It should be mentioned that since January 1 cigarette prices have gone up 12-15 percent and the tendency is unlikely to change in the next three years. Annually excise duties on tobacco products will increase by 20%, reports the Russian Ministry of Finance.
To the minister's mind, cigarettes shouldn't be cheaper than socially important commodities - bread or fare in public transport.