Mehr Steuern auf E-Zigaretten: Vaper werden kräftig zur Kasse gebeten

Deutsche Vapers will experience significantly higher costs for their e-cigarette liquids in the future. According to a tobacco tax reform proposal by the ruling parties in the German Bundestag, each milliliter of liquid will be taxed at 38 cents from 2027, a 6-cent increase from the current rate. The rate will gradually rise to 44 cents by 2030.

Dustin Dahlmann from the Tobacco-Free Enjoyment Alliance (BfTG) explains that a typical 10-milliliter liquid would cost an additional 1.43 euros in four years. With anticipated increases in energy, labor, transportation, and logistics costs, the price is expected to reach nearly 15 euros by 2030. The Bundestag Finance Committee has already approved the plan, and a vote in the plenary session is scheduled for Thursday evening.

The reform is seen as a bitter pill for e-cigarette liquid manufacturers and retailers, as the tax increase is higher than initially planned. The federal finance ministry had initially proposed a one-cent increase to 33 cents next year, with a yearly 1-cent rise to 36 cents by 2030. However, due to budget constraints, the government and coalition parties have expanded the tax plans for e-cigarettes.

In response, industry representatives fear a significant surge in the black market following the reform, as the tobacco tax on vaping liquids has already been increased from 26 to 32 cents since last year, driving up prices. Experts estimate that many vapers will resort to illegal channels to circumvent the higher prices. Dahlmann predicts that the black market will be the main beneficiary, with criminal elements finding the illicit trade increasingly attractive with each tax level.

Horst Winkler from the e-cigarette trade association (VdeH) also regrets that the government factions have significantly tightened the rules "at the last minute." He doubts that the additional tax revenues anticipated will be achieved. Winkler fears that the renewed tax hikes will provide a significant boost to the already thriving black market, as legal specialty retailers face ever-higher taxes and extensive regulatory and bureaucratic requirements.

Meanwhile, illegal suppliers can continue selling their products at a fraction of the regular prices. This undermines youth and consumer protection and robs the state of significant tax revenues. In Germany, approximately 1.7 million people use e-cigarettes, according to a survey by the Heinrich-Heine-University in Düsseldorf (Debra-Study).

The consumption is on the rise, making vaping the trend. The industry promotes their products as a less harmful alternative to tobacco smoking. However, medics warn of the health risks associated with vaping.