Will tax hit the sweet spot?

 
Should Singapore introduce a sugar tax? How effective will the move be in the battle against diabetes?

IMPLEMENTING a “sugar tax” can only do so much in the war against diabetes. A sugar tax may help curb the consumption of food and drinks that are high in sugar, if the higher cost makes these items less accessible.

Singapore, however, is by and large an affluent nation so I believe the impact may only be marginal.

That said, diabetes is considered a “lifestyle disease”, due in part to genetics and/or lifestyle choices such as diet and exercise. Prevention and control is therefore largely a matter of personal responsibility.

Thus I believe education and awareness are more critical in curbing this disease that affects 10 per cent of Singaporeans.

Ronald Lee
Managing Director
PrimeStaff Management Services Pte Ltd