In Turkey, the tobacco sector still has a large share in the economy, tobacco prices have an important weight in the consumer price index (CPI), and tobacco generates a significant share of total tax revenues. Despite the rising tax burden on tobacco since 2002, prevalence and sales do not appear to have declined. Turkey is an important country to investigate, not only because it is still one of the largest tobacco markets, but also because its policies and strategies set an example to many countries, such as the Turkic and Middle Eastern Countries.

This project, which was conducted between February 2020 and July 2020, was a comprehensive situational analysis of current economic, public policy, and health aspects of tobacco, tobacco products, and their alternatives (Harm Reduction Products (HRPs) and cessation aids) in Turkey. TEPAV Tobacco Control Research Policy Team took a closer look at the recent experience to understand why the policies have not been sufficient in Turkey. The project’s ultimate aim was to end the smoking pandemic and the economic and health burden associated with tobacco-attributable diseases and death.

Disclaimer: Produced with the help of a grant from the Foundation for a Smoke-Free World, Inc. The contents, selection and presentation of facts, as well as any opinions expressed herein are the sole responsibility of the authors and under no circumstances shall be regarded as reflecting the positions of the Foundation for a Smoke-Free World, Inc.