By NATARIO McKENZIE
Tribune Business Reporter
nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net
The Minister of Health yesterday said he has "not wavered" on his recommendation for a consumption tax to be imposed on the fast-food industry, but such a policy move is "not imminent".
Dr Duane Sands told Tribune Business: "No, that's not something that's imminent. Certainly the whole policy approach has to be developed. I'm for it, but in the conversation of Value-Added Tax (VAT) and so forth, any tax no matter how well intended or beneficial is going to get the cut eye.
"We are going to have to be very circumspect on what we do and how we do it. I have not wavered on my position however."
Bahamian fast food franchise operators, when the idea was mulled back in April, slammed the idea of such a tax as an "unnecessary financial burden" on Bahamian families that will do nothing to curb the obesity crisis.
Terry Tsavoussis, vice-president of Aetos Holdings, which operates the Wendy's, Marco's Pizza and Popeyes franchises, told Tribune Business that the sector - and business in general - was "taxed enough already".
The Wendy's principal argued that taxing the fast food industry would do little to curb obesity in the Bahamas, and merely force franchises to raise their prices. "I don't think it's the answer to fighting obesity. Something like that will affect all quick service businesses," he said.
Ash Henderson, director of marketing for Restaurant Services, the Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC), Burger King and Dunkin Donuts franchise operator, told Tribune Business at the time: "We respect the Minister's concerns and his advocating for healthy eating habits. That is why we offer a range of healthy and affordable options in our restaurants, including vegetarian options, salads and wraps, and healthy sides in our kid's meals.
"We do, however, feel that a fast food tax is an unnecessary financial burden on hard-working Bahamian families, and that there are alternative ways to encourage a balanced diet."
Comments
joeblow 5 years, 8 months ago
Always trying to walk in the middle of the road on issues!
Why should consumers have to pay a double tax (VAT and the other proposed tax)?
Well_mudda_take_sic 5 years, 8 months ago
These most unhealthy fast food enterprises should be subject to a minimum consumption tax of 25%. Not only are these establishments a significant cause of obesity, they are also wreaking havoc on our environment. Our public dumps, beaches, street sides, etc. are awash in the non-biodegradable trash generated by the fast food industry, most of which consists of highly toxic plastic materials. Tax 'em to death or shut 'em down....they have had a free ride at the public's expense for far too long! I can't believe people today, with all we now know about a healthy life style, still eat the junk they sell....even their salads are unhealthy!
DonAnthony 5 years, 8 months ago
I agree 100%. Maybe the first thing you have ever written that I can wholeheartedly endorse.
PastorTroy 5 years, 8 months ago
Agreed! These fast food owners should be charged with murder! They know their food is addicting that poison and kill millions of kids around the world
DDK 5 years, 8 months ago
Yes, fast food is very unhealthy, but these people have gone tax crazy. They will soon tax us to walk across the street. They are going to tax the country into oblivion.
proudloudandfnm 5 years, 8 months ago
Hey. If you don't like fast food don't eat fast food. But what I do in my life is none of your damned business. Taxing fast food is stupid. Hysterical bullshit. Live your life and leave me the hell alone...
birdiestrachan 5 years, 8 months ago
Persons are entitled to a free choice. Even the God who made us gave us free choice.
bcitizen 5 years, 8 months ago
Fast food if it can be considered food is poison. Free choice yes but, people also depend on the government to defend them from snake oil salesmen. If we are going to move towards a national free health care system whether you agree with it or not people must pay for their poor choices.
killemwitdakno 5 years, 8 months ago
This should come with no VAT on health food and food forests.
To say fast proves there's no knowledge on what all is unhealthy. Also realize that many children are able to eat bc of the chicken bucket deals. Wait until BAMBSI supplies the alternative before kids go hungry.
killemwitdakno 5 years, 8 months ago
Trust me. It's not the fast food. It's frequency.
Bahamian home cooked food is more fattening.
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