KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Pan American Health Organization / World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) have welcomed new fiscal measures introduced by Jamaica aimed at reducing preventable illnesses and strengthening the sustainability of the national health system.

According to the agencies, strong global evidence shows that increasing taxes on tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, and sugar-sweetened drinks is one of the most effective strategies to reduce non-communicable diseases (NCDs), prevent premature deaths, and improve population health. These measures are endorsed by WHO as “best buys” — high-impact, cost-effective interventions suitable for countries at all income levels.

Tobacco use, harmful alcohol consumption, and excessive intake of sugar-sweetened beverages are major drivers of heart disease, cancers, diabetes, obesity, and injuries. International experience demonstrates that making these products less affordable reduces consumption — particularly among young people — while easing long-term pressure on health services and public finances.

“The Government of Jamaica is advancing policies grounded in strong global evidence,” said PAHO/WHO Representative in Jamaica, Ian Stein . “These measures will help reduce preventable illness, lower avoidable health care costs, and support the country’s commitments to sustainable development.”

PAHO/WHO further emphasises that health-promoting fiscal policies not only reduce risk factors but also create fiscal space to reinvest in prevention, primary care, and universal health coverage — strengthening resilience across the health system.

From a child-rights and equity perspective, the benefits are significant, the agencies noted, adding that children and adolescents are especially vulnerable to the marketing and availability of unhealthy products, increasing their risk of lifelong disease.

“Protecting children’s health means shaping environments that enable healthy choices,” said UNICEF Representative, Olga Isaza. “Evidence-based pricing measures reduce children’s exposure to harmful products while creating opportunities to reinvest in services that support families. This is a smart and equitable approach that puts children first.”

PAHO/WHO and UNICEF commended the leadership of the Government of Jamaica in advancing policies grounded in science and the public interest, describing the move as a forward-looking commitment to health, equity, and sustainable national development.