A business leader in Nadi, Dr. Ram Raju, has called for an end to the tobacco industry, advocating instead for the cultivation of fruit and vegetables or medical marijuana as alternative crops. As the president of the Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industry and a former head of the Fiji College of General Practitioners, Dr. Raju emphasized that the government should take decisive action to eliminate the tobacco sector.
His comments come in response to the government’s proposal to increase tobacco taxes with the aim of raising an additional $53 million over the next five years. Dr. Raju pointed out that despite consistent tax increases over the past 40 years, there has been no significant reduction in tobacco use in Fiji. He argued that the existing policies have failed to protect public health, noting the shocking impact of both direct and passive smoking.
Dr. Raju believes the government should focus on providing alternative income sources for tobacco farmers and the two tobacco manufacturing companies in Fiji. He disputed the figures cited regarding the annual medical costs associated with tobacco-related illnesses, claiming that the numbers are likely much higher, warranting further research.
There is ongoing discussion within the tobacco industry regarding the potential rise of a black market if the government moves forward with stringent measures. The existence of an underground market for tobacco products is already a growing concern, indicating the complexities surrounding this issue.
In light of these discussions, it appears that there is an opportunity for the government and local stakeholders to pivot towards healthier agricultural practices. This shift not only holds the potential for economic diversification but also aims to improve public health outcomes in Fiji. As more conversations about sustainable alternatives to tobacco continue, the hope is for a comprehensive approach that can benefit both farmers and the overall well-being of the community.
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