In Germany, the price of cigarettes could increase by up to 2 euros, and VAT on medicines would be reduced

The plan was also supported in the press by Hendrik Streeck, Germany’s Commissioner for Drugs, on the grounds that smoking causes a significant health and economic burden. According to the article, the tobacco tax increase could generate up to €7 billion in additional revenue annually.

In connection with the German drug policy debates, there are also initiatives to tighten cannabis regulations: Bavaria’s health authorities, for example, have urged a reversal of legalization.