IndiaPosted at: Jan 13 2026 7:23PM


FRAI demands immediate review of new tobacco levy

New Delhi, Jan 13, (UNI) As the new additional excise duty on tobacco products and a new health cess on pan masala over and above the GST rates are set to be rolled out from February 1, Federation of Retailers Association of India (FRAI), the national association claiming to be representing nearly 80 lakh micro, small and medium retailers, have come out in the open sharing their anxiety and concern about their survival.
The Federation representing 54 retail associations staged a protest outside the Talkatora Stadium in Delhi against the new tax regime of the government.
From February 1, pan masala, cigarettes, tobacco and similar products will attract a GST rate of 40 per cent, while biris will attract 18 per cent Goods and Services Tax (GST). On top of this, a Health and National Security Cess will be levied on pan masala, while tobacco and related products will attract additional excise duty. The new rates will effectively hike the rates ranging from Rs 2,150 to Rs 8,500 per 1,000 sticks depending on length from February 1.
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