As non-communicable diseases (NCDs) linked to sugar-sweetened beverages rise, Dr. Angela Pratt, WHO Representative in Việt Nam, has called for urgent action to reduce their consumption and protect public health.
Việt Nam faces a growing NCD burden, driven in part by increasing overweight and obesity rates. From 2015 to 2021, the percentage of overweight or obese people rose from 15.6% to 19.6%. Among children and adolescents aged 5-19, the rate more than doubled—from 8.5% in 2010 to 19% in 2020.
Studies show that regular sugary drink consumption raises the risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke, and certain cancers. These beverages contribute to weight gain and obesity, especially threatening children’s long-term health.
Consumption of sugary drinks in Việt Nam has quadrupled over the past 15 years. In 2023, the average person consumed nearly 70 liters annually, or about 1.3 liters weekly.
To reverse this trend, WHO recommends taxing sugary drinks to increase their price and reduce intake. This strategy has proven effective worldwide, particularly among children and adolescents, who are more sensitive to price changes. Over 110 countries have adopted such taxes, which improve health outcomes, reduce healthcare costs, and boost government revenue.
Public awareness of sugar content remains low; a single 330ml can of soda may contain up to ten teaspoons (40 grams) of sugar. WHO supports combining taxation with education campaigns promoting healthy diets. These efforts align with Việt Nam’s broader NCD prevention strategy, which also targets tobacco and alcohol use.
WHO applauds the recent release of Conclusion 176-TB/VPTW and General Secretary Tô Lâm’s emphasis on disease prevention and healthy living, including nutritious diets and avoiding tobacco and alcohol.
Regarding timing, now is the moment for Việt Nam to impose an excise tax on sugary drinks. Compared to other nations in the region, Việt Nam lags behind. The National Assembly’s current review of excise tax laws offers a timely opportunity.
Without action, sugary drink consumption will keep rising, worsening public health. Attempts by the beverage industry to block taxes, citing economic harm, lack global support. Evidence shows consumers shift to healthier options and producers reformulate products when such taxes are enacted.
WHO urges policymakers to seize this opportunity to implement this vital public health measure.
On funding, WHO welcomes Việt Nam’s plan to provide free annual health check-ups for all citizens by 2030. Tax revenues from tobacco, alcohol, and sugary beverages could help finance this initiative. While earmarking tax revenue can effectively support health priorities, it may also reduce fiscal flexibility. Policymakers should weigh these pros and cons carefully.
Related Topics
