Large Tax Increases Are the Most Effective Policy for Reducing Tobacco Use
Jose Luis Vazquez Martinez
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Source:
Tobacconomics Policy Brief. Chicago, IL: Tobacconomics, Health Policy Center, Institute for Health Research and Policy, University of Illinois at Chicago, 2019. www.tobacconomics.org
This policy brief examines the effectiveness of “large” tax increases. The brief defines “large tax increases” as substantive increases in the tobacco tax that directly reduces the affordability of tobacco products. The brief also contrasts them with gradual periodic increases by presenting examples from Australia, the Philippines, and Ukraine where large tax increases were effective in generating revenues and reducing tobacco use. The brief concludes with recommendations governments on the implementation of large tax increases.