3 cost increases to watch

  1. Cigarettes and tobacco products: A new excise duty on tobacco means cigarette prices in India will rise by up to Rs55 per pack, depending on brand and size. This affects cigarettes bought at airports, local shops and duty-paid outlets.

  2. Imported alcohol and luxury items: Higher tax collected at source (TCS) applies to imported alcohol and certain luxury goods. These items will cost more upfront when purchased in India or brought in during travel.

  3. Coffee roasting and vending machines: Customs duty exemptions were removed on coffee roasting and vending machines, increasing costs for cafés, small food businesses or commercial setups run by NRIs or their families.