The WHO is calling on governments to significantly increase taxes on sugary drinks and alcohol, as two new reports reveal levies remain low in many regions.
“Health taxes have been shown to reduce the consumption of these harmful products, help prevent disease and reduce the burden on health systems” WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told reporters on Tuesday.
“At the same time, they generate a stream of income which governments can use to invest in health, education and social protection.
What are the conclusions?
Among other conclusions, the report on taxes on sugary drinks shows that while at least 116 countries tax sugary drinks – including canned soda or soft drinks – other high-sugar products, such as 100 percent fruit juices, sweetened milk drinks and ready-to-drink coffees and teas, escape the tax.
The report on the use of alcohol taxes shows that although 167 countries levy taxes on alcohol, wine and beer, the price of alcohol has become more affordable or remained unchanged in most countries since 2022 because taxes are not adjusted for inflation and income growth.
Why it matters
A cold, sugary pick-me-up at your local coffee shop on a hot day can take its toll if consumed regularly.
Increased consumption of sugary drinks is associated with:
- Increased risks of overweight and obesity
- Type 2 diabetes
- Cardiovascular disease
- Other side effects including tooth decay and osteoporosis
Likewise, the negative health effects of alcohol include:
- Growing risks for maternal and child health
- Exposure to communicable and non-communicable diseases
- Damage to mental health
- Increase the risk of injury to yourself and others
Increasing taxes on harmful drinks leads to a decrease in the number of people consuming them.
To illustrate the success of this approach, WHO chief Tedros cited several examples, including that of the United Kingdom, which introduced a tax on sugary drinks in 2018. This led to:
- Reduced sugar consumption
- An increase in revenue of £338 million in 2024 alone
- Lower obesity rates among girls aged 10 and 11, particularly in disadvantaged communities
The WHO is calling on governments to increase and rethink taxes as part of a new health initiative targeting smoking and excessive consumption of alcohol and sugary drinks.
