Banja Luka, November 6, 2025 – The Faculty of Economics of the University of Banja Luka hosted the conference “Tobacco Control: The Path to Sustainable Economic Development”, jointly organized by the Faculty of Economics and the PROI Association. The event brought together representatives of the academic community, state and entity institutions, international organizations, and local communities of the Republic of Srpska.
Participants discussed the economic and public health aspects of tobacco control, emphasizing how these two areas are interconnected and contribute jointly to sustainable development. The latest research findings on the economic effects of tobacco control policies were presented, including cigarette affordability, the size and characteristics of the illicit market, and a global overview of the Cigarette Tax Scorecard. These studies show that effective fiscal measures not only reduce tobacco consumption but also strengthen public budgets and contribute to long-term economic growth.
Alongside economic themes, the conference focused on the implementation of Article 5.3 of the World Health Organization’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, which protects local communities from tobacco industry interference and ensures that public health decisions remain independent and transparent. Participants exchanged experiences on the role of municipalities and cities in developing local policies that promote smoke-free environments, build public trust, and contribute to healthier communities.
The conference demonstrated that economic and public health policies are not separate spheres but mutually reinforcing: while fiscal measures reduce consumption and increase revenues for development, local implementation of public health measures protects citizens and ensures policy sustainability. Together, they create a comprehensive framework for improving public health and promoting sustainable economic development in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
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