Skopje (& North Macedonia) Offer Europe’s Best Value for Smokers – Cigarette Prices as Low as €1.90

Welcome to our comprehensive study on cigarette prices across Europe, with a particular focus on how (North) Macedonia compares to other countries on the continent.

As of August 2024, we’ve gathered the latest data on the cost of a pack of 20 cigarettes, providing a clear picture of Macedonia’s position in relation to its European neighbors.

why cigarettes are cheap in Macedonia



Key Takeaways:

  1. Lowest Prices in Europe: North Macedonia offers some of the most affordable cigarette prices in Europe, with a pack of 20 cigarettes costing just €1.90. This makes it one of the most economical places for smokers, particularly when compared to countries with significantly higher prices such as Norway (€15.38) and the United Kingdom (€14.61).
  2. Price Variance Across Europe: The study reveals a stark contrast in cigarette prices across Europe, largely influenced by national taxation policies and economic conditions. While Macedonia and Bulgaria (€2.89) are on the lower end of the spectrum, countries like Norway and Ireland (€12.81) lead with the highest prices.
  3. Impact of Taxation: The substantial differences in prices are primarily due to the various levels of excise taxes imposed by each country. Higher taxation rates in countries like Norway and the UK are part of broader public health strategies aimed at reducing smoking rates, whereas lower taxes in countries like Macedonia result in more affordable prices.
  4. Regional Insights: For those interested in the broader regional context, this study highlights the significant price differences even among neighboring countries. For example, while Germany has a moderate price of €6.18 per pack, neighboring Poland offers the same for just €4.80.

The Data:

Here is a list of the latest prices for a pack of 20 cigarettes in various European countries, ordered from high to low, as of August 2024:

  1. Norway: €15.38
  2. United Kingdom: €14.61
  3. Ireland: €12.81
  4. Switzerland: €10.47
  5. Netherlands: €10.24
  6. Finland: €9.97
  7. France: €9.70
  8. Sweden: €8.46
  9. Denmark: €8.06
  10. Italy: €5.77
  11. Spain: €6.39
  12. Germany: €6.18
  13. Malta: €5.90
  14. Portugal: €5.63
  15. Romania: €5.43
  16. Hungary: €5.15
  17. Slovenia: €4.90
  18. Poland: €4.80
  19. Bulgaria: €2.89
  20. North Macedonia: €1.90

This study provides valuable insights for both Macedonian residents and visitors and showcases the country’s competitive cigarette pricing within Europe.

Whether you’re a local resident, a traveler, or simply curious about regional economic differences, understanding these price variations can offer a unique perspective on the economic landscape of Europe and the specific role Macedonia plays within it.

For more detailed information and to explore how these prices are determined, you can refer to our sources:

RELATED: Can You Really Smoke Inside in Skopje?


This guide was first published on August 29, 2024 and was last updated on August 29, 2024. For more information, please contact us at contact@skopjeguide.com.

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