The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched the “3 by 35” Initiative, urging countries to increase real prices on tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks by at least 50% by 2035. The goal: prevent 50 million premature deaths and raise $1 trillion over the next decade through health taxes.

Axar.az, citing WHO, reports that with noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes responsible for over 75% of global deaths, WHO is pushing for bold tax reforms to reduce harmful consumption and fund health systems strained by rising NCD rates and declining international aid.

Dr. Jeremy Farrar, WHO’s Assistant Director-General, said, “Health taxes are one of the most efficient tools we have. They reduce harm and raise revenue that can be reinvested in health and development.”

Countries that have already raised taxes — such as Colombia and South Africa — saw both reduced consumption and increased revenue. However, many nations still offer tax breaks to harmful industries or restrict tax increases through investment deals, which the WHO advises against.

The initiative promotes collaboration across ministries, civil society, and academia and offers technical and policy support to help nations implement effective tax systems. WHO urges global partners to join the campaign for smarter, fairer taxation that supports universal health coverage and advances the Sustainable Development Goals.