Assessment of the potential indicative excise rate for filter cigarettes in the EAEU

Abstract

The article evaluates the compliance of the EAEU member states with the provisions of the Agreement on the principles of conducting tax policy in the field of excises on tobacco products in the member states of the Eurasian Economic Union (hereinafter referred to as the EAEU), and also assesses the potential indicative excise rate for filter cigarettes in the EAEU for 2029. The subject of the study is the excise rates for filter cigarettes in the EAEU member states. The purpose of the study is to assess the prospects for the EAEU member states to achieve the level of the indicative rate established by the Agreement on the Principles of Conducting Tax Policy in the Field of Excises on Tobacco Products in the EAEU for 2024 and to develop proposals for the level of the indicative rate for the future period and a general model for its formation. The methodology of the work is based on the general logical and empirical methods of research, which, in the face of limited data, make it possible to calculate the potential excise rate for filter cigarettes in the EAEU member states for 2029. It is shown that the current model of establishing an indicative excise rate for filter cigarettes based on the euro needs to be changed due to the significant volatility of the national currencies of the EAEU member states. Factors that can influence the desire of countries to continue the policy of systematic increase in excise rates on filter cigarettes are also highlighted. The recommendations obtained as a result of the study can be used by the competent authorities of the EAEU member states when setting the indicative excise rate for filter cigarettes for future periods.