Global Epidemic

Ukraine

Consumption

  • Approximately 11 million (29 percent) Ukrainians smoke.
  • 50 percent of males and 11 percent of females smoke.
  • Smoking prevalence among Ukrainian men is among the highest in the world.
  • Among youth (age 13-15), almost one-fourth (24 percent) currently smoke cigarettes.

Health consequences

  • Approximately 115,000 Ukrainians die each year from smoking-related diseases.
  • Ukrainian male life expectancy is much lower than male life expectancy in Western Europe, in part due to high rates of tobacco consumption.

Tobacco Industry

International tobacco companies dominate the market, holding approximately 90 percent of the cigarette market share in Ukraine. In 2008, Philip Morris International led with 32 percent of market share, followed by Japan Tobacco (25 percent), Imperial Tobacco (20 percent) and British American Tobacco (13 percent). In Ukraine, more than 123 billion cigarettes were sold in 2008.

FCTC Status

Ukraine ratified the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control on June 6, 2006.

Tobacco Control Policy Status

Smoke-free environments: Ukraine's smoke-free law allows for all public places and workplaces to have designated smoking areas. In June 2009, Ukraine passed a national law making health-care facilities, educational facilities, sports and cultural facilities, and public transport completely smoke-free. Separate smoking areas with ventilation are allowed in other public places and workplaces. In dining establishments, at least 50% of the area must be set aside as non-smoking. Sub-national jurisdictions have the authority to implement smoking bans in public places.

Advertising, promotion and sponsorship: Ukraine has a partial advertising ban covering national TV, radio, print media and outdoor advertising. However, indoor advertising, sponsorship and promotion are still allowed.

Warning labels: Current health warnings are text-only and cover 30% of the front and back of the pack. In June 2009, Ukraine passed a packaging and labeling law requiring graphic health warnings on 50% of the front and 50% of the back of the pack. Graphic warnings are scheduled to appear starting September 2012.

Tobacco taxes: Ukraine has passed four tobacco tax increases since September 2008. In May 2009, the tobacco excise tax was increased to approximately 40%-45% of retail price.

Updated: February 2012