Harm reduction advocates call for risk-based taxes on smoke-free products
October 05, 2026 by manilatimes.net
Harm reduction advocates call for risk-based taxes on smoke-free products
At the 2nd National Summit on Nicotine and Harm Reduction in Pasay City on October 1, consumer groups, industry representatives and medical experts urged evidence-based, risk-proportionate taxation and regulation of smoke-free nicotine products. As the Philippine government considers policy changes for vaping and heated tobacco products, participants argued that these alternatives should not automatically face the same taxes as combustible cigarettes, citing differences in associated risks. They also called for stronger enforcement against illicit trade and youth access while preserving regulatory distinctions between combustible and smoke-free products.
19.70% of the adult population are current smokers. There are approximately 16.3 million current smokers in Philippines 35.60% of men are current smokers but only 4.20% of women.
SOURCE: GSTHR
