DILI, 06 january 2023 (TATOLI) – The President of the Republic, José Ramos-Horta has called on the Timorese people to consume locally grown food.
“The global economy is currently unstable as the price of goods, including food prices, continues to soar. Therefore, I call upon the Timorese people to better consume our healthy locally grown food,” President Horta made the appeal at Dili International Airport. today.
President Horta supported the government’s public policy of increasing taxes on sugary drinks and sugar to reduce the consumption of sugary drinks in the country.
“The policy would help reduce the consumption of sugary drinks such as Coco-Cola, Sagiko, Fanta, and Sprite, which is key to preventing cardiovascular disease, hypertension, obesity, and diabetes. Meanwhile, it encourages people to consume locally grown fruits such as papaya, orange mango, pineapple, and so on,” said Horta.
He called on the Timorese people to promote their local food and drink: “We, the Timorese people, must embrace our local food and drink.”
President Horta also called on shop owners not to manipulate the prices of goods and not to commit any price gouging.
The approval of the State Budget bill for the fiscal year 2023 allows the government to impose higher taxes on cars. A car with a value of US$10,000 will be taxed at 10%, above US$ 25,000 will be taxed at 25%, and above US$ 50,000, it will be taxed at 30%.
In addition, the approval of the budget also allows the Government to implement an increase in tobacco excise duty of 100%, from US$50 to US$100 per kg.
The government also increases the price of sugar and sweets by US$1 per kg. Meanwhile, the prices of each liter of sweet and non-alcoholic beverages increased by US$3, except for fruit juices which will contribute to the protection of public health.
The tax change aims to discourage tobacco consumption and unhealthy drinking habits in Timor-Leste, protecting Timorese citizens from devastating health consequences and increasing State revenue.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Nelia Borges
