Overview
- Two new WHO reports find sugary drinks became more affordable in 62 countries between 2022 and 2024, while beer became more affordable in 56.
- WHO is pressing governments to raise and redesign excise taxes through its 3 by 35 campaign to lift real prices by 50% by 2035.
- The organization links weak taxation to growing burdens of obesity, diabetes, heart disease and cancers tied to these products.
- Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warns such measures can be politically unpopular and face opposition from powerful industries.
- Examples from the Philippines, Britain, Lithuania, Colombia and South Africa are cited as evidence that health taxes can reduce consumption and generate revenue.