Introduction:

Stowelink Foundation proudly joins a coalition of national advocates, led by the International Institute of Legislative Affairs, on a new path of advocacy focused on alcohol reduction, increased taxation, and proper labeling. With a shared mission to promote healthier choices and raise awareness about the harmful effects of alcohol, our team aims to influence the national financial bill to implement higher taxes on alcohol. Additionally, we are dedicated to ensuring that the public is well-informed about alcohol and its detrimental impact on health. In this blog post, we outline our key messages to the National Assembly and highlight the importance of advocating for alcohol taxation.

Key Messages to the National Assembly:

1. Protect Section 10 of the Excise Duty Act: We strongly urge against the repeal of Section 10 of the Excise Duty Act as proposed in Clause 38 of the #FinanceBill2023. This section plays a crucial role in regulating alcohol consumption and safeguarding public health. Repealing it would undermine efforts to control the harmful effects of alcohol and compromise the well-being of our communities.
2. The Power of Alcohol Taxation: Taxation and pricing policies for alcoholic beverages have proven to be highly effective and cost-efficient measures in alcohol control. Increasing excise taxes on alcohol is a proven strategy to reduce harmful alcohol consumption and generates revenue for governments to offset the economic costs associated with alcohol-related harms. By advocating for higher alcohol taxes, we can protect public health while contributing to the country’s overall financial well-being.
3. Consider the Health and Economic Implications: The proposed #FinanceBill2023 eliminates the annual inflation adjustment for tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, and sugar-sweetened beverages. This decision could have adverse effects on both health and the economy, primarily benefiting manufacturers at the expense of public well-being. We urge policymakers to carefully evaluate the potential negative consequences and prioritize the health of our citizens.

The Importance of Advocating for Alcohol Taxation:

Advocating for increased alcohol taxation is crucial for several reasons. First, it serves as a deterrent to excessive alcohol consumption, reducing the burden of alcohol-related harms on individuals and society. Higher taxes encourage moderation and discourage harmful drinking patterns. Second, increased alcohol taxation provides governments with much-needed revenue to address the economic costs associated with alcohol abuse, such as healthcare expenses and productivity losses. Lastly, advocating for alcohol taxation reinforces our commitment to promoting a healthier nation by discouraging harmful behaviors and encouraging responsible choices.

Conclusion:

Stowelink Foundation is proud to be part of the national alcohol campaign, advocating for alcohol reduction, increased taxation, and proper labeling. By joining forces with the International Institute of Legislative Affairs and other dedicated advocates, we strive to create a positive impact on public health and well-being. Through our key messages to the National Assembly, we emphasize the importance of preserving legislation, implementing effective taxation measures, and considering the health and economic implications of alcohol-related policies. Together, let us continue to advocate for a healthier future and raise awareness about the importance of alcohol taxation for the well-being of our nation.