The World Health Organization (WHO) launched the “3 by 35” Initiative, urging countries to increase taxes on tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks to raise their prices by at least 50% by 2035.

Aimed at curbing noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and generating public revenue, the initiative could prevent 50 million premature deaths over 50 years.

WHO highlights health taxes as powerful tools to reduce harmful consumption while funding health, education, and social protection.

Backed by global partners, the initiative promotes country-led reforms, political collaboration, and policy support to make health systems more self-reliant and advance progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals.