According to foreign reports, South Korea’s Ministry of health and welfare (MOHW) said it would double the national health promotion tax on e-cigarettes and e-liquids.

Currently, the health tax on e-cigarettes is 525 won (US $0.46) per milliliter of nicotine solution. It will jump to 1050 won on January 1, 2021.

According to an article in the Korean biomedical review, the increase is consistent with other tax increases, including the special tobacco consumption tax. Cigarettes made from parts other than tobacco leaves are not currently taxed and will also be included in the health promotion tax.

Cigarettes manufactured and stored before the amendment comes into effect will also be subject to new restrictions to prevent manufacturers from profiting from inventory.

The health department will listen to public opinions and finalize the proposal during the legislative announcement. It will submit amendments to the national assembly after regulatory and legislative review, the article said.