The World Health Organization (WHO) has revealed encouraging statistics indicating a substantial reduction in global tobacco users, now standing at 1.25 bn individuals, or one in five adults. This marks a significant improvement from the year 2000 when one in three adults were tobacco users, highlighting a positive trend in the fight against tobacco consumption.
Rüdiger Krech, the WHO Director of Health Promotion, acknowledged the progress made in tobacco control but cautioned against complacency. Krech emphasized the persistent threat posed by the tobacco industry, accusing it of prioritizing profits over public health. He warned that the industry is actively manipulating health policies and promoting their harmful products.
The WHO is now urging countries worldwide to remain steadfast in their efforts to combat tobacco use and resist the influence of the tobacco industry. Despite the positive global trend, challenges persist, and the WHO emphasizes the need for continued vigilance to protect public health.
According to the WHO's regional breakdown, Southeast Asia has the highest tobacco consumption rate, with 26.5% of the population using tobacco. In the European Region, the figure is 25.3%, and the use of tobacco among women in this region is more than double the global average, with a slower rate of decline compared to other regions.
The WHO's projections for 2025 anticipate a global decline in tobacco use by 25% compared to 2010. However, only 56 countries are expected to achieve a 30% reduction. Concerningly, some countries, including Congo, Egypt, Indonesia, Jordan, Oman, and Moldova, continue to experience an upward trajectory in tobacco use, underscoring the ongoing challenges in certain regions.
Earlier Daryo reported that in 2024, Uzbekistan will introduce new excise tax rates for alcoholic and tobacco products, with the majority of these rates experiencing upward revisions. Notably, the excise tax on domestically produced ethyl alcohol is set to double, reaching UZS 14,900 ($1.21) per liter, following a fivefold increase at the start of 2023. Additionally, specific types of alcoholic beverages will face a 5% increase in excise taxes starting July 1, while tariffs for imported alcohol will undergo a roughly 5% reduction.
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