The World Health Organisation has urged governments around the world to significantly increase taxes on sugary drinks and alcohol, warning that their low prices and easy access are contributing to rising deaths and illnesses.
The WHO said sugary drinks and alcohol are too cheap and widely available in many countries, fuelling obesity, diabetes, cancer and injuries.
Speaking with journalists on Tuesday, WHO Director-General, Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus, said health taxes remain one of the most effective tools to reduce consumption of harmful products.
“Health taxes have been shown to reduce consumption of these harmful products, helping to prevent disease and reduce the burden on health systems,” he said.
Dr Tedros added that such taxes can also help governments raise funds for public services.
“At the same time, they generate an income stream that governments can use to invest in health, education and social protection,” he stated.
According to a WHO report on sugar-sweetened beverage taxes, at least 116 countries currently tax sugary drinks. However, the organisation noted that many high-sugar products still escape taxation.
These include sodas, carbonated canned drinks, 100 per cent fruit juices, sweetened milk drinks, and ready-to-drink coffees and teas.
“A cold and sweet pick-me-up from your local coffee shop on a hot day can have detrimental consequences, if consumed regularly,” the report warned.
The WHO said increased intake of sugary drinks is linked to excess weight and obesity, Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, dental caries, osteoporosis and other health problems.
On alcohol, the report showed that 167 countries impose taxes on liquor, wine and beer. Despite this, alcohol has become more affordable or remained the same price in many countries since 2022.
The WHO explained that this is largely because alcohol taxes are not adjusted to reflect inflation and rising incomes.
The organisation listed the health risks of alcohol consumption to include increased maternal and child health risks, exposure to communicable and non-communicable diseases, mental health damage, and a higher risk of injuries to oneself and others.
The WHO said raising taxes on harmful drinks leads to fewer people consuming them and better health outcomes.
To support its position, Dr Tedros pointed to the United Kingdom, which introduced a tax on sugary drinks in 2018.
He said the policy led to reduced sugar consumption, generated 338 million pounds in revenue in 2024 alone, and contributed to lower obesity rates among girls aged 10 and 11, particularly in poorer communities.
The WHO called on governments to raise and redesign taxes as part of a broader health initiative aimed at reducing tobacco use and excessive consumption of alcohol and sugary drinks.
The organisation said such measures are critical to saving lives and easing pressure on overstretched health systems.
