Minister of Health Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim has announced today that under efforts to build a healthy generation, discussions are currently underway to ban sheesha, cut sugar subsidies, and impose a tax.
Speaking at a press conference held today, Nazim responded to a question posed from Mihaaru News and said that as banning additional types of tobacco and imposing taxes on products containing sugar are related to general lifestyles, these matters are regulated under certain policies.
He noted that the government has recently taken key action in this regard. This includes the generational ban on sale and use of tobacco for those born 2007 onwards, and the ban on vapes.
"Sheesha and sugar, these are issues we are currently discussing," Nazim said.
Nazim said that he believes a solution to excessive sugar consumption can be reached if the government continues taking successive measures in response to public health concerns.
"The discussions are at various stages now. The question now is, I think, when will this be fully implemented. It is imperative that this is done at the most appropriate time and circumstance," he said.
Cutting subsidies and imposing tax on sugar varieties is not something the ministry can do unilaterally, the Minister noted. However, the health sector is awaiting in anticipation of the day such action is enforced, he said.
The Doctors' Association has also appealed for a ban on sheesha, and to increase tax on sugary drinks.
The government spends a significant amount on providing subsidies for sugar, one of the food staples imported to the country.
In a statement issued last October, the Doctors' Association commended the government's anti-tobacco measures. This, they said, is an important investment made towards protecting the health of future generations, and supporting the vision of a healthy nation.
The association also shared their views on key anti-tobacco actions that should be taken in the next five years. This includes a ban on sheesha and tobacco flavours.
The government has said that raising awareness on this is a priority this year.
