Statistics show that over 80% of all deaths in Kyrgyzstan are related to NCDs, and alcohol is directly responsible for nearly one in ten of these tragedies.
Every year, about 2,500 cases of alcohol-related deaths are recorded in the country.
Additionally, alcohol accounts for approximately 11% of all deaths from injuries and one in six lives lost in road traffic accidents.
As noted by the Ministry of Health, the World Health Organization believes that increasing excise taxes on alcoholic beverages is one of the most effective economic measures to reduce alcohol consumption and prevent NCDs.
Proper taxation of alcohol can:
• reduce overall consumption and associated harm by making alcohol less accessible, especially in times of rising incomes and inflation;
• lower healthcare costs and increase economic productivity;
• ensure government revenue that can be used for healthcare and social needs.
Discussion of current topics Edil Baisalov: cigarettes, alcohol, and sugary drinks should become more expensive
“Increasing taxes on alcohol can also reduce health inequality. The harm from alcohol particularly affects low-income individuals, who tend to face more severe consequences at similar levels of consumption. Raising taxes is especially effective in reducing consumption in this group, and excise taxes can be supplemented with special measures to address alcohol-related issues. Thus, alcohol taxation not only improves public health but also promotes social justice,” the Ministry of Health noted.
Earlier, Deputy Prime Minister Edil Baisalov expressed the opinion that prices for cigarettes, alcohol, and sugary drinks in Kyrgyzstan should be increased.
