PETALING JAYA: While raising the ceiling price of sugar may reduce its consumption and promote healthy living, the government must also ensure that inflation is controlled, say economists. They suggested that the sugar tax be expanded to more items as a means to control consumption for health purposes and to grow tax revenue.
Referring to a government study on sugar prices, Sunway University Economics Professor Dr Yeah Kim Leng said the government needed to strike a balance between raising sugar prices to discourage excessive consumption for the sake of public health, and controlling inflation since sugar was an essential ingredient in many beverages and food items.
Subscribe to The Star Yearly Premium Plan for 30% off
Cancel anytime. Ad-free. Full access to Web and App.
Monthly Plan
RM 13.90/month
RM 9.73/month
Billed as RM 9.73 for the 1st month, RM 13.90 thereafter.
Annual Plan
RM 12.39/month
RM 8.63/month
Billed as RM 103.60 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.
