A social media post by a SEBI-registered investment adviser has triggered widespread discussion online after he suggested that frequent smokers could travel to Vietnam to buy cigarettes at lower prices, following indications of a possible excise duty hike on cigarettes in India.
The post, shared on X by Rajat Sharma, founder of Sana Securities and a New York-qualified attorney, compared cigarette prices in India and Vietnam. Sharma noted that a pack of 20 Marlboro Lights currently costs around ₹340 in New Delhi and could rise to ₹400 if companies pass on the increased excise duty to consumers. In contrast, he said the same pack costs the equivalent of ₹120–₹130 in Vietnam.
Based on the price difference, Sharma argued that regular smokers could potentially offset the cost of a return flight to Ho Chi Minh City by purchasing cigarettes abroad. He added that smokers should also consider themselves “fortunate” compared to countries like Australia, where cigarette prices are significantly higher.
The post quickly went viral, drawing mixed reactions from social media users.
While some responded with humour, many others raised health, legal, and ethical concerns. Several users urged smokers to consider quitting instead, pointing to long-term health risks and medical costs. Others criticised the post as an example of addiction being prioritised over well-being.
A number of users also highlighted customs regulations, noting that there are strict limits on the quantity of tobacco products that can be brought into India duty-free. According to commenters, exceeding these limits would attract customs duty, significantly reducing or eliminating any perceived cost savings.
The discussion comes at a time when the Union government is moving closer to increasing excise duties on tobacco products, a step often linked to both public health objectives and revenue generation.
