Landscape View of the Tobacco Market in Slovakia (Policy Brief)

This Policy Brief was written by Institute of Economic Research SAS in Slovakia. The policy brief provides an overview of the size, structure, and characteristics of the market for tobacco products, as well as the trends over time. The cigarette market comprises only of imported products, following a privatization of local brands. The researchers find that tobacco products have largely become more affordable over time as tobacco taxes have not kept up with significant income growth and inflation. Recent adjustments to the excise tax, paired with slower income growth has partially but not fully reversed this trend. The price differential between economy and premium brands decreased over time, from more than 22% in 2012 to 13% in 2022. Alternate tobacco products are growing in popularity partially due to their affordability, as only HTPs are subject to excise taxes. Smoke-free policies in Slovakia are weaker compared to most other countries in the EU and are not strictly enforced. As a result, a significant portion of both smokers and non-smokers are exposed to secondhand smoke in restaurants, bars, and clubs. The policy brief concludes with recommendations for effective price and non-price policies to strengthen tobacco control efforts. 

A corresponding Report can be found here.