The global drinks industry major producers and brewers is intensifying its battle against tougher alcohol regulations proposed by the World Health Organization (WHO) and supported in draft United Nation agreements.
WHO Maintains “No Safe Level” Stance
Correspondence reviewed by Reuters shows that industry groups lobbied governments this summer to remove or dilute key regulatory measures originally backed by WHO. Major modifications includes:
- Weaker language on marketing restrictions
- Less aggressive tax proposals, and
- Softened references to reducing harmful use of alcohol
WHO officials defend their position, stating that evidence shows no safe level of alcohol consumption, and that even moderate use carries risks for cancers and cardiovascular disease. They warn that industry interference threatens public health goals by undercutting preventive policy.
Industry’s Counter-Narrative
Industry representatives argue they support science-based policy and responsible drinking, and oppose what they call “extreme” bans. Some groups say the stricter regulations would unfairly penalize moderate consumers and small producers. They are also boosting investment in campaigns and scientific debates meant to challenge public health narratives.
The conflict centers around a UN-backed agreement on noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) which countries are to adopt soon. Alcohol controls including taxes, marketing restrictions, and labeling mandates were part of earlier drafts but have already seen pushback and rewrites Health groups see parallels with past tobacco industry tactics, cautioning that profit motives may override health objectives. Some warn that unless governments resist this pressure, global alcohol policy could be compromised.
Source: Reuters
