Experts doubt increase will deter smokers or affect retail pricing

China raised the consumption tax on cigarettes on Friday, but experts expect the effort to deter smoker may be muted in the world's largest maker and consumer of cigarettes, given the moderate rate increase.

The Ministry of Finance announced an increase in the consumption tax on wholesale cigarettes from 5 percent to 11 percent. Cigarettes will also be taxed an additional 0.005 yuan each, the ministry said, adding that the changes will take effect on Sunday. World No Tobacco Day falls on May 31.