Global trade agreements: The role and objectives of the alcohol industry

Trade agreements are negotiated by trade experts in consultation with corporate interests without significant public health input. Agreements challenge effective alcohol control policies which may be seen as constraints on trade that interfere with commercial priorities and profit opportunities of foreign businesses. The alcohol industry supports and influences trade policy to reduce tariffs, increase market access, increase competition, lower prices, promote alcohol consumption, and have the potential to restrict effective domestic regulations. The prospect is for a “perfect storm” for increased alcohol consumption and concomitant problems worldwide. The presentation is a preliminary assessment of the means and extent of alcohol industry influence in trade agreements.