A recent study conducted by the Alcohol and Drug Information Centre (ADIC) reveals that 11.6% of Sri Lankan youth aged 15 to 21 are actively smoking, while 18% consume alcohol.
The survey, carried out across 11 districts, highlights that most initiations into smoking and drinking occur during social gatherings, with peer pressure and media promotions by the tobacco industry playing a significant role in shaping positive perceptions of these products among youth.
Despite these findings, ADIC notes a positive trend in alcohol use over the past decade, with overall consumption showing a marked decline. Data indicates a drop in alcohol production since 2022, while government revenue from excise duties has continued to rise, likely due to successive tax hikes.
Survey results show that 36.5% of participants have quit smoking, and 20.9% of current smokers have reduced their usage. Additionally, 27.9% reported quitting alcohol by the time the survey was conducted.
According to Central Bank data, a 20% increase in cigarette excise duty in 2023 generated an additional LKR 7.7 billion in revenue, while cigarette production dropped by 521.5 million sticks — an 18% decline from the previous year.
To further curb substance use, ADIC recommends enforcing a ban on tobacco sales within 100 meters of schools, strengthening the implementation of the NATA Act, and halting the issuance of temporary and tourism-linked liquor licenses.
