Fiji is considering expanding its current excise tax framework, which currently targets sugar-sweetened beverages, sugar-heavy foods, and unhealthy snacks, to also include products that contain trans fats and to impose taxes on additional categories of sugary drinks. This recommendation was highlighted in the recently launched Fiji Health Sector Review 2024, presented by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.
The report suggests that the value-added tax (VAT) could also be leveraged to focus on sugar-sweetened beverages and unhealthy food products. The need for effective strategies that address lifestyle risk factors is emphasized, aiming to delay the onset of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and to mitigate the growth of multi-morbidity within the population.
Furthermore, the report underscores that actions required to tackle these health issues extend beyond the health sector, necessitating collaboration with various stakeholders and ministries. Such partnerships are expected to provide substantial returns on investment.
The document notes that while Fiji has successfully utilized taxation to make tobacco products less accessible, there is room for enhancement. The excise tax on cigarettes in Fiji accounts for only about half of what is seen in countries like Australia and the Cook Islands.
The revision of the Healthy School Policy by the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Education is recognized as a positive move that aims to promote physical activity and healthy eating habits among students. However, the report stresses that the success of this initiative will heavily depend on its effective implementation.
In summary, Fiji has a significant opportunity to improve public health by reassessing its taxation policies on unhealthy foods and beverages. Strengthening these measures, along with collaborative efforts across sectors, could lead to a healthier society and a reduction in disease prevalence. With focused strategies, there is hope for positive health outcomes for future generations in Fiji.
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