Cigarette prices in Bulgaria are set to rise starting in August as the government moves ahead with a gradual increase in excise duties on tobacco products, according to the Ministry of Finance’s medium-term budget forecast for 2026-2028.
The first price adjustment is scheduled for August, when the cost of a pack of cigarettes is expected to increase by around 13 euro cents. Further increases are planned in stages: an additional 12 euro cents per pack from March 2027, followed by another 12 euro cents from January 2028.
Officials say the changes are part of a broader fiscal strategy aimed at boosting state revenues. The updated forecast outlines a series of measures intended to strengthen budget income over the next three years, with tobacco taxation identified as one of the most significant contributors.
According to the Ministry of Finance, higher excise duties on tobacco products are expected to generate substantial additional revenue. The projected impact is estimated at approximately 155.9 million euros in 2026 alone, and about 341.4 million euros over the entire forecast period.
The current excise rate for 1,000 cigarettes stands at 113.51 euros. From August 1, it will increase to 120 euros, which translates into the reported 13-cent rise per pack.
