Moroccan government says it will not raise taxes on e-cigarettes in 2026 budget

Morocco’s government said it will not raise consumption taxes on electronic cigarettes in the 2026 finance bill, rejecting opposition proposals to increase levies on vaping products.

Budget Minister Delegate Fouzi Lekjaa told parliament’s Finance Committee that higher taxes “do not guarantee lower consumption,” arguing that taxation alone cannot address nicotine use.

Lekjaa said recent increases on traditional tobacco products already tested market tolerance and warned that new hikes could encourage smuggling. The government, he added, seeks a “balanced” approach combining regulation and awareness rather than fiscal penalties.

Opposition lawmakers from the Socialist and Justice and Development parties had called for higher duties on e-cigarette liquids, refill devices, and hookah substitutes, citing public health risks and growing use among students.