Hanoi (VNA) – The National Assembly on June 14 officially passed the revised Law on Special Consumption Tax, which, for the first time, imposes a levy on sugary beverages. With this policy, Vietnam joins approximately 110 countries that use taxation as a tool to increase prices of products harmful to health.
The move was welcomed by Dr Angela Pratt, Representative of the World Health Organisation (WHO) in Vietnam, who described it as a very encouraging outcome that will contribute to reducing health harms and medical costs caused by diseases linked with sugary drinks in the decades to come.
She made the remarks at a press awards ceremony honouring works in the realm of non-communicable disease prevention. The event took place on June 19, as part of activities to mark the 100th anniversary of the Vietnam Revolutionary Press Day (June 21, 1925–2025).
In her speech, Dr Pratt noted that the tax would be particularly effective in changing consumption habits among children and adolescents, who are more price-sensitive and likely to reduce intake as prices rise. As such, the policy is expected to protect young people’s health and help build a healthier future generation.
WHO will continue to support the Vietnamese Government in achieving its priority health goals, the representative affirmed, elaborating that the organisation will advocate the effective enforcement of the ban on e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products, the strengthening of health warnings, as well as the promotion of smoke-free environments and cessation programmes. It will also push for further tax increases on other unhealthy products as part of broader efforts to protect public health.
She expressed WHO’s commitment to working closely with the media as a key partner in reaching the public and policymakers, providing clear and evidence-based messages on effective health solutions.
The press awards on non-communicable disease prevention, launched on April 28, received enthusiastic participation from journalists across various media outlets, with over 120 entries submitted.
At the award ceremony, the organising committee presented one first prize to journalist Vu Thi Nam Phuong from the Dan tri newspaper, and two second prizes to journalists Duong Thi Ngan from the Tai chinh – Dau tu newspaper and Nguyen Hai Yen from Dai bieu Nhan dan. Three third prizes went to journalists Hoang Thi Bich from Nguoi dua tin, Pham Thi Hiep from Suc Khoe & Doi song, and Truong Thi Bich Ngoc from Nhan Dan.
In addition, several special awards were granted, including the impressive television programme award, impressive radio programme award, positive impact award, dedication award, and the “journalist for the community” award.
By highlighting issues of great public concern, media outlets have effectively conveyed the real harms of sweetened beverages, and made complex tax-related information more accessible to the general public. Their reporting has also helped ensure that policymakers are equipped with evidence-based insights to inform decision-making.
The press awards on communications about non-communicable diseases was jointly organised by WHO in Vietnam and HealthBridge Vietnam./.
According to Pratt in a recent interview, mounting evidence shows that regular consumption of sugary drinks significantly increases the risk of Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke and certain types of cancer. This habit is closely linked to weight gain and obesity in both children and adults, key risk factors for many serious health conditions. For children, in particular, sugary beverages pose a clear threat to long-term health.
Consumption of sugary drinks in Vietnam has surged over the past 15 years. In 2023, the average Vietnamese consumer drank four times more sugary beverages than in 2009. On average, each person consumed nearly 70 litres per year, which is about 1.3 litres per week.
