WHO Presses Governments to Raise Alcohol Taxes Worldwide

The World Health Organization is urging governments worldwide to raise taxes on alcoholic beverages, citing concerns that alcohol has become more affordable in many countries. In two reports released this week, the agency said that current tax rates have not kept up with inflation or rising incomes, making it easier for people to buy alcohol. This trend, according to the WHO, is contributing to higher consumption and an increase in health problems such as noncommunicable diseases, injuries, and violence.

The reports show that 167 countries currently impose some form of tax on alcohol. However, the WHO found that these taxes are often too low to have a significant impact on prices. On average, taxes make up about 14 percent of the price of beer and 22.5 percent of the price of spirits. Wine remains untaxed in at least 25 countries, most of which are in Europe.

The organization also pointed out that few governments adjust alcohol taxes regularly to account for inflation. As a result, the real cost of alcohol has dropped in many places since 2022. The WHO says this makes it easier for people to buy more alcohol, which can lead to increased health risks and social problems.

The call for higher taxes is part of the WHO’s “3 by 35” initiative, announced last year. The goal is to increase the real prices of alcohol, tobacco, and sugary drinks by 2035. The agency argues that raising taxes on these products would not only reduce harmful consumption but also provide much-needed revenue for health systems under financial strain.

The WHO’s recommendations come as many countries face growing public health challenges linked to alcohol use. The agency says that stronger tax policies could help governments address these issues while also supporting their budgets. It is encouraging policymakers to review their current tax structures and consider regular adjustments tied to inflation.

While some governments have taken steps to increase alcohol taxes in recent years, the WHO reports that progress has been slow and uneven. The organization is calling for a more coordinated global effort to ensure that alcohol prices reflect their true social and health costs. It says that without action, the affordability of alcohol will continue to rise, putting more people at risk and increasing pressure on health services around the world.