Mama noodle tax: Govt proposes new levy on salty food

[buksida]

A new tax on salty foods will target frozen products, canned foods and instant noodles, the Excise Department says. However, seasonings such as fish sauce, soy sauce and salt will be exempted.

Department director-general Patchara Anuntasilpa said the agency is working with the Public Health Ministry on a study of the proposed tax as part of efforts to promote consumption of healthy food.

The tax rate will vary according to the amount of salt in the foods -- the higher the sodium content, the higher tax, he said, adding the details will be finalised and submitted to Finance Minister Uttama Savanayana by the end of this year.

The proposal to impose a levy on foods containing high levels of sodium is unprecedented in Thailand, but follows a tax on sugary beverages, Mr Patchara said, adding that the department will offer a tax reprieve period of one to two years for local manufacturers to reduce the salt in their products.

He said the first batch of salty products subject to tax would include frozen and canned foods and instant noodles, though the department will not tax children's snacks as they are not everyday staples.


https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/ge ... essed-food

[handdrummer]

I love it when the government decides how I should eat. It gives me a feeling of confidence in our leaders.

[dundrillin]

Some interventions make sense eg banning trans fats
But education probably works better ( if you trust what you are being sold)

[handdrummer]

Some interventions make sense eg banning trans fats
But education probably works better ( if you trust what you are being sold)

It's easy enough to search the internet for information.
The people who eat a lot of salt will just add salt to those products.
Governments are looking for every way possible to garner income and taxes are the best place to look.