Reducing Beedi Consumption in Sri Lanka

Thematic Area:

Beedi is an unfiltered, hand-rolled tobacco product, which is much cheaper than cigarettes. Sri Lanka’s beedi industry is underregulated; it enjoys minimal taxation and is relatively free from other tobacco-related regulations. Given the absence of pictorial warnings that cigarette packs must carry in accordance with the law, beedi has grown in popularity among low-income groups. Higher intensity of beedi smoking may be attributed to its low price and smaller size compared to a cigarette. Due to its unfavourable health and fiscal implications, it is important to have policy measures to reduce beedi consumption in Sri Lanka.