A new report has revealed that China remains the world’s largest tobacco consumer, accounting for almost half of global cigarette consumption. According to a study by a non-governmental organisation founded by former officials of the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 2.7 trillion cigarettes are sold in China every year.
Distinctive Cigarette Packaging
Unlike many countries that use graphic health warnings on cigarette packs, China’s packaging often features bright colours, cultural motifs, and only a small cautionary message. Experts say inexpensive pricing and the country’s state-controlled tobacco monopoly have contributed significantly to rising cigarette consumption.
India Ranks Second
India ranks as the world’s second-largest consumer of tobacco. However, tobacco use in India differs greatly from China. While cigarette smoking dominates in China, smokeless tobacco products are more commonly used in India. Gutka, khaini, and betel quid tobacco — often referred to as “supari” — remain widely consumed across the country.
Tobacco Use Beyond Cigarettes
India’s tobacco culture extends beyond cigarettes to include bidis, hookahs, and cigars. Although tobacco products in India are generally cheaper than in many Western nations, prices have gradually increased as authorities attempt to reduce tobacco consumption.
Countries With the Highest Smoking Rates
While China and India lead in overall tobacco consumption, the highest smoking rates are seen in Pacific Island nations, Balkan countries, and parts of Southeast Asia. Nauru, a small island nation in Oceania, has the world’s highest smoking rate, with nearly 45 per cent of its population using tobacco.
Gender Gap in Smoking
In most countries, men smoke significantly more than women. However, the gap is narrower in several European nations. In countries such as Sweden and Iceland, female smoking rates have at times surpassed those of men. Similar patterns have occasionally been observed in Serbia as well.
WHO Warns of a Global Tobacco Epidemic
The World Health Organisation (WHO) describes widespread tobacco use as a global “tobacco epidemic,” warning that no form of tobacco consumption is safe. According to WHO estimates, tobacco use causes more than 7 million deaths every year, in addition to long-term illness, disability, and suffering worldwide.
