NHSO Unites Partners to Drive 'Sodium Tax' to Reduce Non-Communicable Disease Risks

Currently, Thai population sodium consumption is trending over 2,000 milligrams per day, which exceeds recommended daily intake and creates significant risks for non-communicable chronic diseases (NCDs) such as hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and chronic kidney disease - all primary causes of death in Thailand. To address excessive sodium consumption, the Health Promotion Foundation (NHSO) collaborated with the Policy Development Study Center from Chulalongkorn University's Economics Faculty and health network partners to host a forum titled 'Sodium Tax... Invisible Health Benefits' at Pathumwan Princess Hotel on January 28, 2026. Dr. Pairote Saunuan, Deputy Fund Manager at NHSO, explained that public education alone might be insufficient for broad behavioral change, necessitating social, legal, and tax measures. Drawing from successful alcohol and tobacco consumption reduction experiences, they are exploring sodium and sugar tax strategies by carefully studying Thai consumption behaviors to design efficient health-promoting interventions.