Smoking in Germany at 20-year low

Wed 23rd Jan, 2013

Recent figures show that German people are smoking fewer cigarettes, with sales down to their lowest level for over 20 years. The reason is attributed to rising taxes. 

The Federal Statistics Office in Wiesbaden reported that last year 82.4 billion cigarettes were taxed - 5.9 percent less than 2011 and the lowest level since reunification.

At the same time, sales of cigars decreased slightly by ten percent and the amount of tax cut by 0.4 percent. In contrast, sales of pipe tobacco rose by 12.4 percent.

The government responded to this development by increasing tobacco tax from 1 January 2012. Additionally, further tax increases on cigarettes are planned each year through to 2015.


Unpredictable Weather: Mild and Variable Conditions in Berlin and Brandenburg

The week in Berlin and Brandenburg is set to begin with mild temperatures and a mix of weather conditions. According to the German Weather Service (DWD), rain showers may occur intermittently, but...

Firefighters Tackle Major Blaze at Residential Building in Berlin-Schöneberg

In the early hours of the morning, a significant fire broke out on the roof of a residential building located on Czeminskistraße in Berlin-Schöneberg. The Berlin fire department responded swiftly...

Tragic Collision in Ludwigsburg Claims the Life of Young Bride-to-Be

A devastating incident in Ludwigsburg has left the community in shock following a high-speed crash that resulted in the tragic deaths of two young women. The driver, identified as Gürkan U.,...

Concerns Rise as Bird Flu Affects Cattle in the US

One year has passed since the first detection of avian influenza in dairy cows in the United States, raising alarm among health experts. The outbreak, which has led to dozens of human infections and...

Fatal Stabbing at Kurdish New Year Celebration in Bavaria

Parsberg, Bavaria - A tragic incident unfolded during a Kurdish New Year celebration on Sunday afternoon, resulting in a fatal stabbing. A 39-year-old man lost his life in the attack, while no...

Tragic Plane Crash Claims Life of Renowned Clinician

A tragic incident occurred when a prominent physician lost his life in a plane crash while pursuing his passion for aviation. The doctor was flying with his six-year-old daughter, who survived but...

More Quick Read Articles »
German PKV Insurance

German Private Health Insurance

Health Insurance in Germany is compulsory and sometimes complicated, not to mention expensive. As an expat, you are required to navigate this landscape within weeks of arriving, so check our FAQ on PKV. For our guide on resources and access to agents who can give you a competitive quote, try our PKV Cost comparison tool.

Hospitals

Hospital and Clinic Directory

Germany is famous for its medical expertise and extensive number of hospitals and clinics. See this comprehensive directory of hospitals and clinics across the country, complete with links to their websites, addresses, contact info, and specializations/services.

Events

Upcoming Events

Der Ungeliebte

The exhibition commemorates the 300th birthday of Kurfürst Karl Theodor, who became the ruler of Bavaria after the last altbayerische Wittelsbacher passed away in late 1777. Despite his significant contributions to economic modernization, social improvements, and cultural initiatives like the...