“KPL / Lao Inter Post ” More than 6,000 people in Laos die annually from tobacco-related diseases, causing economic losses exceeding 3.6 billion kip, health officials said during a national meeting on tobacco control.
The warning was delivered at a meeting of the National Committee for Tobacco Control, chaired by Baikham Khattiya, Minister of Health. The session reviewed progress in implementing tobacco control measures, including investment agreements, tobacco tax collection mechanisms, and funding allocations to the Tobacco Control Fund ahead of current contract expirations in December 2026.
Officials also discussed enforcement challenges related to the ban on electronic cigarettes, the growing presence of new tobacco products in the market, and legal and regulatory barriers to strengthening tobacco control in the country.
Participants included representatives from the Ministry of Education and Sports, the University of Health Sciences, and key government agencies such as the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, and the Ministry of Public Security.
Speaking at the meeting, Khattiya described the tobacco industry as a major threat to public health and national development.
“The tobacco industry remains the greatest obstacle to public health and national development. It contributes to non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular illnesses and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease,” she said.
She noted that emerging tobacco products are increasingly being marketed in Laos, particularly targeting young people.
Health authorities expressed concern that youth are especially vulnerable to marketing strategies that encourage experimentation with tobacco products.
Khattiya emphasized that legislation alone is insufficient to address the issue, calling for stronger enforcement and coordinated action across all levels of government.
“We must ensure strict implementation of laws nationwide and prevent any interference from tobacco companies in policymaking,” she said. “The active participation of all sectors is essential to protect public health and save lives.”