Moroccan smokers will feel the pinch starting January 1, 2026, as prices for cigarettes, cigars, heated tobacco, and other tobacco products rise.
Most cigarette packs will see an increase of MAD 1 to MAD 2, while other products will also cost more.
The move comes as part of a multi-year plan to reform tobacco taxation and reduce consumption.
The price hike is linked to changes in the internal consumption tax (TIC), which forms part of the total cost of tobacco products.
The government updated the calculation base and public retail prices through a ministerial decree published at the end of December 2025.
This is a continuation of the 2022 Finance Law, which outlined a progressive tax reform on tobacco for the 2022–2026 period, aiming to raise MAD 2.6 billion in revenue by 2026.
Beyond revenue, health experts hope the higher prices will encourage smokers to cut back or quit.
In Morocco, roughly 1 in 5 adults smoke, with men making up the majority of tobacco users.
Cigarettes remain the dominant product, but heated tobacco and other alternatives are slowly growing in popularity.
Evidence from around the world shows that price increases are one of the most effective tools for reducing tobacco use, especially among young people and lower-income populations.
Experts say that taxation alone is not enough. Awareness campaigns and access to quitting programs are essential to achieving meaningful reductions in tobacco consumption.
The government’s strategy is a careful balance between raising revenue and promoting public health.
By gradually increasing taxes and prices, Morocco hopes to curb smoking rates without creating sudden shocks for consumers.
This incremental approach mirrors international best practices and signals a long-term commitment to improving health outcomes while securing additional resources for public services.
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