The WHO urges global tax hikes on sugary drinks and alcohol to combat rising health crises.

The World Health Organization is urging nations to increase taxes on alcohol and sugar-filled beverages, cautioning that stagnant tax rates that don't keep up with inflation are making these goods more accessible and contributing to the rising rates of injuries, diabetes, obesity, and heart disease. While 167 countries tax alcohol and 116 countries tax sugar-filled beverages, the majority have low, antiquated rates, averaging only 2% on sodas and low shares on beer and spirits, while many exempt goods like wine or sweetened beverages. In order to lower consumption and raise €850 billion for health systems, the WHO's "3 by 35" initiative calls for a 50% real price increase on these goods by 2035 through health taxes.