Hong Kong's tobacco tax rose by almost 32 percent on Wednesday, with the government saying the move is designed to give smokers even more of a reason to quit.

In his budget speech, Financial Secretary Paul Chan announced that the duty was rising by HK$0.8 per cigarette, with immediate effect.

Last year, he raised the tax by HK$0.6 per cigarette.

The latest move means an extra HK$16 of tax on a packet of 20 cigarettes, bringing the total amount to HK$66.

Based on current prices, smokers could pay more than HK$90 per packet.

"We expect that the proportion of tobacco duty in the retail price of cigarettes will rise to about 70 percent, gradually approaching the 75 percent level recommended by the World Health Organisation," Chan said.

He added that raising taxes is globally recognised as the most effective way to cut smoking rates.

"This will provide a greater incentive for the public to quit smoking, safeguarding public health," he said.

The minister added that officials will step up enforcement against illicit cigarette trading, while beefing up services, publicity and education to help people kick the habit.