Related: Cigarette Tax Increased to Cut Smoking

by Zhang Cheng

In its latest move to curb smoking, China has raised consumption tax on cigarettes by 6 to 11 percent, varied by different price categories certain cigarette falls under.

After the tax hike, the price for one 70 Yuan, or 10.25 U.S. dollar, cigarette pack will go up by about 10 Yuan or a dollar-fifty.

The official 'Xinhuanet' carried an article saying raising taxes is an effective way to curb tobacco consumption, but is only part of the solution.

The article said increasing tobacco tax and raising tobacco prices have proven to be the most effective way to reduce smoking among smokers of all income levels. It will prevent young people from taking up the habit and encourage more smokers to quit.

But peoples' responses to tobacco regulations vary. Increased prices would have no effect on a group of people who would give up meals but not cigarettes, the article says.

Therefore, the article suggests the government follow the rules of the World Health Organization's Framework Convention on Tobacco Control in 2005.

The convention ruled that warning pictures, like throat cancer and rotting teeth, should be printed on cigarette packets to highlight the health risks of smoking. It also added that related departments should prohibit any forms of tobacco advertisements in the media and strictly ban smoking in public areas.