INSLA calls for effective implementation of Excise Tax to combat NCDs

The Institute of Leadership and Development (INSLA) has called on the government to take urgent action in combating non-communication diseases (NCDs) through effective implementation of the Excise Duty (Amendment) Act 1109 of 2023.

It noted that NCDs are increasing at an alarming rate in the country with many deaths occurring prematurely.

A statement copied to the Ghana News Agency by Ms Mary Kpogo, the Director of Programme of INSLA said according to WHO, NCDs accounted for an estimated 42 per cent of total death and 31 per cent of disease burden in Ghana.

It said the diseases were projected to increase due to urbanization, unhealthy eating and living lifestyles.

The statement said sugar sweetened beverages (SSBs) like soda, energy drinks, and sweetened juices, have been conclusively linked to an increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and dental caries, among other NCDs.

“SSBs are significant contributors to public health crisis and as Ghana grapples with increasing rates of obesity, diabetes, and other diet-related health issues, it is imperative that we take bold action to reduce the consumption of sugary products,” it advised.

It said SSBs were significant contributors to overweight and obesity and that children suffering from these conditions have an elevated probability of developing other diet-related diseases later in life, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and stroke.

It noted that the NCDs not only affect individuals but also place a significant burden on the country’s healthcare system and the economy.

The INSLA applauded the passage of the Excise Duty (Amendment) Act 1109 of 2023 which imposes a 20 per cent tax on SSBs including flavoured juice drinks, sweetened tea, sodas, and energy drinks.

“The tax law makes Ghana one of hundreds that have implemented the WHO-recommended intervention to help prevent NCDs. This measure is evidence-based and has been proven to be effective in reducing SSB consumption and generating revenue for health promotion in other countries.

The statement said Ghana could reduce and promote healthier future for its population if it implemented the Excise Duty Tax effectively while helping to increasing revenue generation, which could be used to fund healthcare initiatives, public health programmes and social services.

It urged the government to put in place mechanisms that would combat illicit trading of SSBs and invest in establishing a framework that would monitor the impact of the excise duty tax on public health patterns, consumption rates and the revenue generation aspects.

The Ghana Revenue Authority should effectively implement the Excise Duty Amendment Act 2023, ensuring that SSBs are taxed in accordance with the Act while ensuring that the industry (producers, importers and retailers of SSBs) comply to pay the required taxes and regularly review and adjust the tax to maintain its effectiveness, the statement said.

It called on the Ghana Police Service, the Attorney General’s Department, and the Judiciary to take steps and hold industry players who do not comply to the Tax Act accountable.

The statement encouraged the public to reduce their consumption of SSBs and opt for healthier alternatives.

It called on other stakeholders to join INSLA in its efforts to take immediate actions for the effective implementation of the Excise Duty (Amendment) Acts 1109 of 2023 in Ghana “so that together, we can reduce the burden of NCDs and promote a healthier future for current and future generations.

Source: GNA

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