Will Pizza Tax Revive Economy?
22 January 2025
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By A Correspondent

The Harare regime, under President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s leadership, has introduced a fast food tax aimed at boosting revenue. The tax, which began this month, targets various fast food items sold in the city on a per-unit basis, with the dual objective of raising funds for development and addressing public health concerns related to unhealthy eating habits.

While the move has sparked debate, it underscores the administration’s urgent need to secure additional revenue. The government is hopeful the tax will provide much-needed funds for urban development and critical public services.

Finance Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube explained, “This year we introduced the sugar tax, we have collected over US$30 million earmarked to deal with cancer issues and cancer response programmes. We have managed well in terms of tax collection. This has been directed towards the health sector. We have really been focused to improve the access to drugs, quality of equipment, and in the 2025 budget we have made sure the amount is close to the Abuja target.”

The administration is hopeful that the fast food tax will similarly contribute to public health initiatives and generate a steady income stream to support the country’s ailing economy. The government has emphasized that funds from this tax will be allocated to improving healthcare and addressing non-communicable diseases linked to poor diets.