Moldova advances tobacco controls as soft drink producers oppose proposed tax
Moldovan lawmakers are advancing stricter tobacco label warnings while beverage producers warn against a proposed 2027 excise tax on soft drinks.
The Moldovan Parliament is advancing tobacco control legislation that mandates updated health warnings on cigarette packaging regarding risks to families and pregnant women, alongside new reporting obligations for manufacturers. Public health officials are also scrutinizing tobacco giant Philip Morris for launching nicotine pouches ahead of a June 2026 ban, following company claims that sales remain legal until mid-2027.
Simultaneously, Moldovan soft drink producers are urging authorities to scrap a proposed 2027 excise tax of 1.60 lei per liter on sweetened and energy drinks. Industry representatives warned the levy could drive retail prices up by as much as 34 percent, potentially depressing sales and causing job losses across the sector.
Sources: Moldova1, Newsmaker, Point, Ziarul de Gardă.
