Archive · 15 Jan 2026
WHO Urges Higher Taxes on Sugary Drinks and Alcohol
The World Health Organization (WHO) says that sugary drinks and alcohol are becoming cheaper, which is bad for our health.
They cause diseases like obesity, diabetes, and heart problems.
The WHO wants countries to raise taxes on these products to make them more expensive.
This will help people stay healthier and also give more money to health services.
Right now, taxes on these products are very low, so they are easy to buy.
The WHO says that by making these products more expensive, we can prevent many diseases and help people live better lives.
WHO recommends increasing taxes on sugary drinks, juices, and alcohol to curb non-communicable diseases.
Current taxes on sugary drinks are low, making these products more affordable and profitable.
Alcohol has become more affordable or unchanged in price in most countries since 2022.
Health systems face financial pressure due to preventable diseases caused by these products.
WHO calls for redesigning taxes to make these products less affordable by 2035.
- Who
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- What
- Urging higher taxes on sugary drinks, juices, and alcohol to curb non-communicable diseases
- When
- January 15
- Where
- Global
- Why
- To reduce consumption of health-harming products and fund vital health services
- Organization
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- Products Targeted
- Sugary drinks, fruit juices, alcoholic beverages
- Current Tax Rates
- Median tax for sugary drinks is about 2% of price
- Health Risks
- Obesity, diabetes, heart disease, cancers, injuries
- Global Impact
- Health systems face financial pressure from preventable diseases
- WHO Recommendation
- Increase taxes on sugary drinks and alcohol by 2035
- Alcohol Tax Rates
- 14% for beer, 22.5% for spirits globally
- Countries Banning Alcohol
- 12 countries