In News:

Amid shrinking official development assistance (ODA) and growing health burdens, the World Health Organization (WHO) has launched the 3 by 35 Initiative—a global call to action to increase taxes on three harmful products: tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks. The goal is to raise their real prices by at least 50% by the year 2035, tailored to each country’s context.

Why the Initiative?

• Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs)—like cardiovascular diseases, cancers, and diabetes—are the leading cause of death and disability worldwide.
• Tobacco use causes over 7 million deaths annually; alcohol and sugary drinks significantly contribute to the global NCD burden.
• Health taxes are a proven strategy to curb harmful consumption while generating domestic revenue for health and development.

Economic Potential:

• A one-time 50% price increase via taxation could generate:
  • US$ 3.7 trillion over five years
  • ~US$ 740 billion per year (approx. 0.75% of global GDP)
• Estimated to raise US$ 1 trillion in public revenue over the next decade while reducing product consumption.

Key Objectives of 3 by 35:

• Reduce Harmful Consumption:
  • Discourage use of tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks.
  • Mitigate NCDs and associated healthcare costs.
• Mobilize Domestic Revenue:
  • Strengthen public financing without reliance on external aid.
  • Support progress toward Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• Build Healthier, Resilient Economies:
  • Improve economic productivity through healthier populations.
  • Channel revenue toward health services, nutrition, and education.

Strategic Actions:

• Mobilize Countries:
  • Engage leaders, finance and health ministries, and civil society.
  • Provide platforms for peer learning and global recognition.
• Support Country-Led Policies:
  • Offer technical support for health tax design, legal reform, and implementation.
  • Promote evidence-based, locally tailored solutions.
• Build Commitments and Partnerships:
  • Foster multi-sector collaboration and civil society engagement.
  • Shift public and political narratives around health taxation.

Governance and Collaboration:

• Led by WHO and supported by:
  • National governments
  • Civil society and academic institutions
  • Development partners and multilateral organizations