The Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) has made significant progress on tobacco control over the past decade, particularly in restricting tobacco advertising and e-cigarette availability and maintaining smoke-free spaces, according to a new World Health Organization (WHO) report.
However, WHO’s Representative in Lao PDR notes, the country’s tobacco tax rate – the lowest in the ASEAN region – coupled with low tobacco prices, means lives are being needlessly lost. Tobacco use kills more than 17 people a day in Lao PDR.
Since 2008, the WHO report on the global tobacco epidemic has tracked country progress on tobacco control, with the ninth edition released recently.
According to the latest report's findings, the National Assembly’s introduction of a complete ban on e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products, and shisha, represents a significant health-protecting step. It also makes Lao PDR one of just over 30 countries enforcing a total e-cigarette ban.
Similarly, Lao PDR’s passing of strengthened laws restricting tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship sees the country achieve a “best practice level” in this crucial area of tobacco control. Passed by the National Assembly in 2021, the recent legislation includes the prohibition of advertising or displaying tobacco products at point of sale, free distribution and promotional discounts, and internet sales of tobacco products.
Additionally, Lao PDR has achieved a "best practice level" in maintaining smoke-free indoor public places, workplaces and public transport. While compliance has improved in areas like restaurants, gaps remain and there has been a decline in people being completely smoke-free on public transport.
Dr Ying-Ru Lo, WHO Representative to Lao PDR, noted: “This progress is both significant and lifesaving, and all involved in the fight against tobacco should be proud – particularly the ban on e-cigarettes. Regarding restrictions on tobacco advertising, the continuing sale of vapes and other products, and defending smoke-free spaces, the focus is raising awareness and rigorous enforcement to protect health – we look forward to supporting the Ministry of Health and other partners.”
“However, Lao PDR’s tobacco tax levels remain low. One reason is benefits and tax exemptions granted to the tobacco industry. Taxing tobacco products is a proven tool to effectively mitigate these lethal products’ impacts. No tobacco company should be granted any tax exemptions, incentives, privileges, or benefits. Addressing this will save lives.”
Tobacco use remains a significant challenge in Lao PDR. Tobacco use causes lung cancer, heart disease, stroke and many other lethal impacts, while second-hand smoke harms smoker’s family and friends. In 2018, WHO’s Global Health Observatory Data Repository reported a tobacco use prevalence rate of 34.1% and tobacco use kills more than 6700 people each year in the country. An earlier report by health sector partners found that stricter tobacco control measures in Lao PDR will avert LAK 10.1 trillion in economic losses, lead to LAK 679 billion in savings on healthcare, and save 25,269 lives.
The full report Global Tobacco Epidemic, 2023: Protect People from Tobacco Smoke can be downloaded here.