WHO calls for raising taxes: Fighting deaths from alcohol and sugary drinks

The World Health Organization (WHO) is calling on governments around the world to raise taxes on alcohol and sugary drinks in order to reduce the number of deaths. This was reported by the WHO press service, which released new data on low tax rates on these unhealthy products in different countries.

According to WHO representatives, tax increases can help reduce the number of deaths, as 2.6 million people lose their lives annually due to alcohol consumption, and 8 million due to unhealthy eating. Low tax rates in many countries, especially on sodas and alcohol, are becoming an obstacle to encouraging healthy lifestyles among the population.

According to the WHO, the average excise tax on soda around the world is only 6.6% of the price, which does not reflect the high level of consumption of these beverages. National taxes on alcoholic beverages are not used in all countries, and it is noted that wine remains exempt from excise tax in most European countries.

According to a WHO study, a 50% increase in alcohol taxes could prevent more than 21 million deaths over 50 years and generate more than $17 trillion in additional revenue, equivalent to the total government revenues of the world's eight largest economies in one year.

The example of Lithuania, which raised its alcohol tax in 2017, demonstrates the success of such a measure. Alcohol-related deaths decreased and tax revenues increased from 234 million euros in 2016 to 323 million euros in 2018.

The study also indicates that taxation helps to reduce the consumption of harmful products and stimulates the production of healthier alternatives. Taxes on alcohol and carbonated beverages help prevent injuries and non-communicable diseases, including cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.

"Taxing unhealthy products leads to healthier populations, raises revenue for governments and has a positive impact on society," said Rudiger Krech, WHO Director of Health Promotion.

A recent survey conducted in collaboration with WHO and Bloomberg Philanthropies confirms public support for higher taxes on unhealthy products, demonstrating the need for effective regulation to improve global health.