Harm Reduction Strategies Ignored: Economic Impact of Tobacco Control Policies

The Consumer Choice Center recently organized a press briefing in the Philippines, focusing on missed opportunities in tobacco harm reduction under the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC). Experts from seven countries convened to discuss the potential of harm reduction approaches in tobacco policy.

Christopher Cabuay of De la Salle University highlighted the financial toll tobacco-related illnesses take on the Philippines, costing roughly $9.8 billion annually. He argues that shifting even a portion of smokers to harm reduction methods could result in substantial economic savings.

Anton Israel from the Nicotine Consumers Union criticized the disconnect between policy formation and consumers' actual experiences. Meanwhile, international voices emphasized the economic inefficiencies of restrictive regulations, with Nancy Loucas pointing out how bans lead to illicit markets, and Michael Landl advocating for risk-based taxation strategies.

(With inputs from agencies.)