The Department of Health (DOH) proposed to double the "health surcharge" to NT$20 for each pack of cigarette from the current NT$10 while tobacco suppliers have been lobbying for a raise to NT$15.

Legislators on the Health, Environment and Labor Affairs Committee were divided on the issue. Some of them also asked the DOH to make sound preparations to avoid possible hoarding of tobacco products in anticipation of the hike in retailing price.

The lawmakers eventually voted to turn the surcharge issue over to consultation among major political parties so as to buy some time before reaching a final decision.

The more restrictive anti-smoking rules are set to take effect on Jan. 11, 2009 while anti-smoking organizations have stepped up pressure on the DOH to raise cigarette prices as a way to discourage smoking.