Tobacco Control Bill 2025: Balancing Health Regulations and Economic Growth

By Daily News Reporter 

The Tobacco Control Bill of 2025 has ignited a heated debate in Zambia, pitting health advocates against industry stakeholders. At the heart of the controversy is the question of how to balance health regulations with economic growth.

The Zambia Association of Manufacturers (ZAM) has expressed strong concerns about the Bill, arguing that it focuses too much on the production side of the tobacco industry rather than health regulations. ZAM President Ashu Sagar emphasized that the proposed Bill could lead to illicit trade, harming the local economy and resulting in job losses.

Sagar's concerns are shared by other industry stakeholders, including the Zambia National Farmers Union (ZNFU) and the Tobacco Association of Zambia (TAZ). Together, they presented a cohesive industry position, calling for a balanced regulatory framework that considers both public health and economic sustainability.

The tobacco industry is a significant contributor to Zambia's foreign exchange, and Sagar stressed the need for legislation that supports farmers in transitioning to alternative crops. He also highlighted the importance of diversification in the agricultural sector to ensure economic stability.

However, not everyone agrees with ZAM's stance. Tobacco control advocates argue that the Bill is necessary to regulate tobacco advertising, impose stricter marketing controls, and curb the sale of tobacco products near schools and playgrounds. They also point out that Zambia has one of the highest rates of youth smoking in the world, with 70% of youths starting to smoke before the age of 13.

Ultimately, finding a balance between health regulations and economic growth is crucial. As Sagar noted, both health and production aspects need careful consideration to ensure that the Bill does not harm the local economy while still protecting public health.

The debate surrounding the Tobacco Control Bill 2025 serves as a reminder that policy-making is often a delicate balancing act. As Zambia moves forward with the Bill, it is essential to consider the perspectives of all stakeholders involved, from industry leaders to health advocates, to ensure that the final product is a balanced and effective piece of legislation.