فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
In a parliamentary intervention, a Moroccan MP expressed astonishment at the stance of some parties defending tobacco products in the country, labeling such positions as unjustifiable. He emphasized that discussions on this issue should not be limited to financial considerations or the revenue from tobacco taxes in the national budget. Instead, they should focus on the severe health consequences of tobacco consumption, particularly for children.
The MP highlighted the paradox of relying on tobacco revenues to bolster state finances while the health impacts of smoking burden the national healthcare system. He questioned who bears the cost of treating tobacco-induced illnesses such as cancer, pointing out that tobacco companies contribute nothing toward covering these expenses while continuing to profit at the expense of Moroccan citizens’ health.
He called on the government to implement a strict behavioral tax on cigarettes, citing World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations that a 10% tax increase could reduce consumption by 4%. He argued that adopting such policies would align Morocco with nations prioritizing the health of their populations and protecting children from the harmful effects of tobacco.
The MP also noted that similar proposals had been discussed in the past, but progress in implementing these policies has been slow. He urged the government to act more decisively and swiftly to align with international efforts in this area, stressing that it is time to prioritize the health of Moroccans over financial or economic interests.
Concluding his speech, the MP called on the government to take full responsibility for safeguarding public health, asserting that increasing taxes on cigarettes is not merely a financial step but a critical measure to reduce consumption and enhance the well-being of Moroccan society.
source : fesnews media
