In February 2023, the government increased the federal excise duty on cigarettes by around 150 percent, resulting in a corresponding increase in cigarette prices
Country/Region : Consider lead times and trade regulations from key regions like China (CN), Hong Kong (HK), or Vietnam (VN)
Cigars and smoking tobacco are taxed at 40% of the wholesale price.6,7 Clean indoor air ordinances Smoking is prohibited in all government workplaces, private workplaces, schools, childcare facilities, restaurants, bars (allowed in smoking bars), retail stores and recreational/cultural facilities.7 E-cigarettes are included in the states definition of smoking.9 Flavor restrictions The sale of all flavored tobacco products is prohibited, except in smoking bars
And even if that is the sole motivation, the move will almost certainly help CVS financially and get their competitors to think twice about their cigarette sales.