India Cigarette Market Overview, 2028

The soothing neurological effects of nicotine in tobacco are increasing cigarette usage among young individuals to relieve stress and anxiety. This, together with the growing population, rising disposable incomes, and hectic lifestyles of individuals, is one of the major drivers driving market expansion in India. Aside from that, the major manufacturers are producing flavor-on-demand product versions in which liquid-filled capsules are crushed to flavor cigarette smoke. To entice consumers in the country, these firms are also investing in point-of-sale (PoS) and on-pack advertising. This, combined with increased efforts to sell items in other nations, is projected to drive market expansion in the future. India has a large and diversified population, making it one of the world's most important cigarette markets. The sheer vastness of the consumer base adds to the market's importance. For many decades, smoking has been a part of Indian culture, and many cultural rites and ceremonies incorporate the use of tobacco products. Smoking's societal acceptance has led to its proliferation. Tobacco growing is a significant agricultural activity in various Indian states. The tobacco industry employs farmers and supports rural economies, making it politically powerful. The tobacco sector contributes significantly to the Indian economy. It creates jobs, generates tax income, and supports ancillary industries such as packaging and distribution. Shifting consumer preferences have led to the emergence of alternative nicotine delivery products, such as e-cigarettes and vaping devices. These products have gained popularity among some segments of the population. The interests of tobacco farmers and associations can influence government policies and regulations related to tobacco cultivation and production.

According to the research report "India Cigarette Market Overview, 2028," published by Bonafide Research, the India Cigarette market is anticipated to grow with more than 4.5% CAGR from 2023 to 2028. Furthermore, the variety of tobacco usage choices within India is significant. Traditional hand-rolled bidis and modern manufactured cigarettes are popular in many areas and states across India. Bidis, for example, are still popular in some rural and tribal regions due to their low cost and perceived safety. In contrast, filter-tipped cigarettes, which are frequently imported or manufactured by global tobacco companies, are widely consumed in metropolitan areas. Furthermore, some users prefer flavored and scented tobacco products, such as clove cigarettes (kreteks), due to their aromatic and peculiar taste. Tobacco preferences vary in terms of strength and flavor, with consumers choosing mild, regular, or strong versions based on personal taste and perceived strength. The influence of tradition, culture, and regional preferences, combined with India's enormous and diverse population, generates a complex tapestry of cigarette usage that is both diversified and culturally embedded. This variety emphasizes the need to take into account local peculiarities and customs when studying and addressing tobacco usage in India. India's population is continually expanding, and increased population often coincides with increased cigarette smoking. Alternative tobacco products, such as e-cigarettes and vaping devices, have gained appeal among specific groups, which had an influence on traditional cigarette sales. Growing public awareness of the health concerns linked with smoking has prompted some people to quit or cut back on their tobacco use. Public health campaigns and anti-smoking activities have helped to raise awareness.

Based on type market is segmented into light, medium and others. Light type is significantly leading the market of India with significant market share. One of the key reasons for light cigarettes' popularity in the Indian market was consumer opinion that they were less dangerous than normal or full-flavor cigarettes. This view was frequently perpetuated by marketing initiatives portraying light cigarettes as a healthier alternative. Smokers who were health-conscious and aware of the negative health impacts of smoking were more inclined to choose light cigarettes, believing that they provided a softer smoking experience with less tar and nicotine content. Another aspect that contributed was regulatory measures and government programs aimed at limiting the harm caused by smoking. The Indian government had adopted legislation requiring greater and more explicit health warnings on cigarette packs, making light cigarettes a more appealing option for individuals who wanted to continue smoking but were concerned about health risks. Economic factors such as price sensitivity and affordability played a role. Light cigarettes were often priced competitively, making them accessible to a broader segment of the population. This affordability made Light cigarettes an attractive option for both regular smokers and occasional smokers.

Based on distribution channel market is majorly divided into speciality store, hypermarket/ supermarket, convenience stores, online and others. Online channel is expected to register highest growth rate in India cigarette market. E-commerce in India is growing rapidly, with more people shopping online for a variety of things. This trend was projected to spread to the cigarette sector, as customers desired the convenience of purchasing cigarettes online and having them delivered to their door. Some customers wanted to purchase cigarettes in private, and internet shopping provided privacy and eliminated the social stigma associated with purchasing tobacco items in physical storefronts. Customers in remote or underserved locations with limited access to physical stores could be reached by online retailers. This increased reach aided the rise of internet sales. India had a burgeoning youth population as well as a tech-savvy demographic that was familiar with internet shopping. This demographic was more likely to contribute to online sales growth.

Considered in this report:
• Geography: India
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028



Aspects covered in this report:
• India Cigarette market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Type:
• Light
• Medium
• Others

By Distribution Channel:
• Speciality Store
• Hypermarket/supermarket
• Convenience Stores
• Online
• Others

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, and annual reports of companies, analyzing the government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers into regional aspects, tier aspects, age groups, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience:
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to the Cigarette industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.