Political arguments for and against tobacco tax increases in the Swiss Parliament (2010-2025).

Increasing taxation is one of the most effective tobacco control policies. However, cigarette taxes in Switzerland remain lower than in other European countries. This study analyses the arguments supporting or opposing an increased taxation that were put forward by members of the Swiss Parliament and by the Swiss Government between 2010 and 2025. Arguments in favour of higher taxes are mainly youth protection and taxation according to product risk. Arguments against higher taxes are mainly illicit and cross-border trade, followed by the negative economic impact. The Government often takes a status quo approach when responding to parliamentary requests.