18 January 2022

Uruguay proposes excise tax on e-cigarettes

The bill would impose an excise tax on e-cigarettes at a maximum rate of 70%. The Executive Branch, however, could increase the tax rate to 72%.

The Uruguayan Executive Branch sent a bill to Parliament proposing an excise tax on e-cigarettes.

Background

Decree 338/996 subjects the first sale of tobacco, cigars and cigarettes to an excise tax at a rate set by the Executive Branch in accordance with the maximum rate established under the law. E-cigarettes are currently excluded from the excise tax.

Proposed bill

The bill would broaden the definition of tobacco, cigars and cigarettes to include “other products of similar use.” The bill also would establish that the maximum applicable tax rate shall not exceed 70%, although the Executive Branch may increase the rate up to a maximum of 72%.

The bill was sent to the Uruguayan Parliament on 17 December 2021, and it is currently under consideration by the Senate.

Further details will be reported as they occur.

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For additional information with respect to this Alert, please contact the following:

EY Uruguay, Montevideo

Martha Roca | martha.roca@uy.ey.com

  • María Inés Eibe | ines.eibe@uy.ey.com

    Ernst & Young LLP (United States), Latin American Business Center, New York

    Ernst & Young Abogados, Latin America Business Center, Madrid

    Ernst & Young LLP (United Kingdom), Latin American Business Center, London

    Ernst & Young Tax Co., Latin American Business Center, Japan & Asia Pacific

    Raul Moreno, Tokyo | raul.moreno@jp.ey.com

  • Luis Coronado, Singapore | luis.coronado@sg.ey.com

    Document ID: 2022-5065