战略与国际研究中心-US-Engagement-in-International-Tobacco-Control_13页_386kb

U.S. Engagement in International Tobacco Control: Summary

Core Content

This report by Benn McGrady, published by the CSIS Global Health Policy Center in June 2009, examines the potential benefits and challenges of U.S. engagement in international tobacco control efforts, particularly through the World Health Organization (WHO) Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC). It highlights the importance of U.S. participation in global tobacco control and outlines key areas where the U.S. can contribute, including illicit trade, product regulation, and surveillance.

Main Points

Benefits of U.S. Engagement

• Global Health Impact: Increased U.S. involvement in international tobacco control could improve global health outcomes through better surveillance, monitoring, and regulation.
• Domestic Benefits:
  • Reducing Tax Evasion: Addressing illicit tobacco trade can help reduce domestic tax evasion.
  • National Security: Illicit trade can be a funding source for terrorist organizations and organized crime, so U.S. engagement could enhance national security.
  • Standardization: International product regulation efforts could feed into U.S. regulatory processes, promoting standardization and reducing trade barriers.
  • Reputation Restoration: The U.S. reputation on tobacco issues has been damaged by its past support for expanding tobacco markets in developing countries. Active engagement could help restore this reputation.

Key Issues for U.S. Engagement

1. Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products

   • The FCTC is negotiating a protocol to address illicit trade.
   • U.S. ratification of the FCTC is crucial for participation in these negotiations.
   • Failure to ratify would limit U.S. influence, as it would only be able to observe and not vote.

2. Product Regulation and Disclosures

   • The U.S. could play a leading role in developing international standards for product regulation.
   • The proposed Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act would expand FDA authority, aligning U.S. laws with FCTC requirements.
   • International standards are important to avoid unnecessary trade barriers and ensure consistency.

3. Surveillance and Monitoring

   • The U.S. has a strong capacity in evidence-based policymaking and could contribute to improving international reporting and monitoring systems.
   • A robust monitoring mechanism is essential for identifying the impact of tobacco control measures.

Challenges and Considerations

• Ratification of the FCTC: Requires Senate approval and domestic legislation, such as the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act.
• Constitutional Concerns: Article 13 of the FCTC allows for exceptions based on constitutional principles, which could affect the U.S. ability to fully comply with the convention.
• Reputational Risks: Continued opposition to FCTC provisions or prioritizing commercial interests over public health could damage the U.S. reputation and hinder international cooperation.

Financial Implications

• Budget Contributions: The U.S. would be required to contribute up to $1.9 million for the 2010–2011 budget period.
• Cost-Benefit: This is a relatively small amount compared to the federal excise tax on tobacco products, which was around $7.5 billion in 2007.
• Potential Returns: The FCTC protocol on illicit trade could lead to increased tax collection, making the contribution a strategic investment.

Key Information

• FCTC Background: The FCTC was developed in response to the globalization of the tobacco epidemic, with U.S. involvement in trade liberalization and foreign investment contributing to its development.
• U.S. Role in Negotiations: The U.S. has historically played a leadership role in combating transnational organized crime, including illicit tobacco trade.
• Current U.S. Laws: Existing U.S. regulations on tobacco advertising and packaging do not fully comply with FCTC standards, necessitating legislative changes.
• Proposed Legislation: The Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act would align U.S. laws with FCTC provisions and enhance the FDA’s regulatory powers.
• COP4 and Protocol Negotiations: COP4 (2010) is expected to adopt an optional protocol on illicit trade, and the U.S. must ratify the FCTC before this session to participate effectively.

Conclusion

Ratification of the FCTC by the U.S. would enable meaningful participation in international tobacco control efforts, particularly in the development of protocols on illicit trade and product regulation. It could also restore the U.S. reputation and support evidence-based policies globally. However, the U.S. must first pass the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act and ensure its domestic laws align with FCTC standards. The financial cost is minimal, but the strategic and reputational benefits are significant.