KUALA LUMPUR: JTI Malaysia has expressed support for the Government’s plan under Budget 2026 to implement a phased increase in tobacco excise duties starting Nov 1, 2025.
The company said the move reflects a balanced fiscal approach that supports enforcement continuity and revenue stability.
“Malaysia’s ongoing progress in reducing the illicit cigarette market demonstrates that measured fiscal management and strong enforcement are mutually reinforcing pillars of success,” JTI Malaysia said in a statement.
However, JTI Malaysia cautioned that the fight against illicit cigarettes must remain an uncompromising national priority, noting that illegal cigarettes still account for a large share of consumption and continue to erode tax revenue.
It called for continued coordination between the Ministry of Finance, Royal Malaysian Customs Department and industry players to ensure that tax adjustments are supported by strong enforcement at the borders.
“JTI Malaysia notes with disappointment that Budget 2026 omits excise measures for vape products, despite full regulatory parity now existing under the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024,” it said.
