172601 Global trade agreements: The role and objectives of the alcohol industry

Monday, October 27, 2008: 2:45 PM

Donald W. Zeigler, PhD , Long Range Planning, American Medical Association, Evanston, IL
     
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.

Learning Objectives:
At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) will be able to 1. Recognize the complexity of trade agreements and their impact on alcohol control 2. Describe the ways that the alcohol industry tries to influence national governments to include features in trade agreements that promote alcohol consumption and profits. 3. Delineate means to counter undue industry influence.

Keywords: Public Health Policy, Alcohol Problems

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: I have researched the topic and have no conflicts of interest
Any relevant financial relationships? No

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.

See more of: Health and Trade Policy for Specific Industries
See more of: Trade & Health Forum