PRD Challenges Federal Minimum Cigarette Price Policy at Brazil's Supreme Court

The Partido Renovação Democrática (PRD) has taken legal action at Brazil's Supreme Federal Court (STF), challenging the federal government's policy on the minimum sale price of cigarettes. The party argues that the current price of R$7.50 per pack, established in May, is outdated and inadequate to discourage tobacco consumption, failing to keep pace with inflation and undermining public health efforts.

The PRD's complaint, filed under a fundamental precept violation inquiry assigned to Minister Cristiano Zanin, claims the federal government has neglected its constitutional duty to protect public health by insufficiently adjusting cigarette prices. They contend that the lack of regular evaluation and clear criteria for price adjustments weakens the tobacco control strategy outlined in Law 12.546/2011 and Decree 7.212/2010, which prohibit selling cigarettes below a set minimum price.

The party is urging the STF to recognize the government's omission and order the implementation of measures to revise the pricing policy. Specifically, they seek a government evaluation and a work plan within 90 days, and a technical assessment by federal agencies within 180 days to adjust prices based on inflation and the health impacts of smoking.

This move underscores ongoing concerns about tobacco consumption in Brazil and calls for stronger regulatory measures to deter smoking and promote public health.