Iraq’s Daily Tobacco Spending Reaches Three Billion Dinars, Health Ministry Warns
The Federal Ministry of Planning also reports that daily spending of three billion dinars on tobacco products heavily strains household finances and the national economy.

Feb. 2, 2025
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – The Iraqi Ministry of Health has raised alarm over the country's high tobacco consumption, revealing that Iraqis collectively spend approximately three billion dinars daily on tobacco products.
The announcement coincides with Iraq’s National Anti-Smoking Day, observed on Feb. 2 of each year, highlighting the severe health and economic consequences of smoking.
The figures were released by the ministry’s Anti-Smoking Program, marking the anniversary of Law No. 19 of 2012, which aims to curb tobacco use.
Dr. Wasim Geilan, Deputy Director of the program, underscored this year’s focus on the health, environmental, and financial repercussions of smoking, with a particular concern for women’s health.
The campaign’s slogan, "Smoking Deteriorates Women's Beauty and Femininity," underlines the specific risks faced by female smokers.
Dr. Geilan referenced global statistics showing that smoking claims over 8 million lives annually, with 1.5 million of these deaths occurring among the world’s 200 million female smokers.
The health risks for women include increased chances of cervical cancer, infertility, pregnancy complications, low birth weight, and sudden infant death syndrome.
These dangers not only affect individual smokers but also pose significant public health challenges for families and communities.
Beyond health risks, the economic burden of tobacco consumption is substantial.
According to the Ministry of Planning, the daily expenditure of three billion dinars on cigarettes, hookah, vaping products, and other tobacco items places a heavy strain on both household finances and the national economy.
The Ministry of Health’s comprehensive report serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for stronger public health initiatives and stricter enforcement of anti-smoking policies.
As Iraq continues its battle against tobacco addiction, officials stress the importance of sustained awareness campaigns and legislative measures to reduce smoking rates and mitigate its widespread impact.