Updated April 2013
Tobacco consumption is increasing in Asia. The Asia Pacific region alone accounts for 57.4% of the world smoking population.
Current smoking prevalence in ASEAN countries (figures in percent)* * Note: Years in which prevalence surveys were conducted differ from country to country |
In addition, the annual cigarette consumption per capita in ASEAN countries is high in Indonesia, Vietnam and Philippines
Annual Cigarette Consumption Per Capita in ASEAN Countries*
 Source: www.tobaccoatlas.org Note: Data from the year 2009. No available data for Brunei and Singapore |
CIGARETTE PRICE TREND
British American Tobacco (BAT) and Philip Morris International (PMI) dominate various local market in the region through their local production facilities or joint venture with local manufacturers. Given the rapid economic growth and inflation of Asian nations, cigarettes are becoming more affordable over time.
Most popular local and foreign brands, 2012
Prices of most popular local and foreign brands (in USD), 2012
TOBACCO TAX RATE
Within ASEAN, Brunei has the highest tax burden as a percentage of the retail price charged on a pack of cigarettes, closely followed by Thailand and Singapore.
Tobacco tax burden as percentage of retail price, 2013
 Note: Rates for countries following the tier-system are based on average/most applied rates |
GOVERNMENT TOBACCO REVENUE TRENDS
Tobacco tax can help save lives and be the reliable source of government revenue. In some countries such as Thailand have contribute the revenue to establish a health promotion fund (ThaiHealth), which is based on a 2% tobacco surcharge tax. Similar opportunities exist for countries like Indonesia, Lao PDR, Vietnam and the Philippines to ensure a sustainable funding source for various health promotion and social development initiatives.
Government Revenue from Tobacco Tax 2005-2011 (figures in USD)
 *Tobacco tax revenue from domestic tobacco products only |
TOBACCO TAX SYSTEM COMPARISON
Tobacco tax systems vary from country to county as result of diverse challenges including lack of government buy-in, tobacco industry interference, and slow tax and price increases. In spite of the differences in tax systems, each country is encouraged to maximize the benefits of higher tobacco taxes and prices that can be used to reduced tobacco consumption and protect the health of the public.
Regional Comparison of Tobacco Tax System, 2013
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