The Solomon Islands government says a 20 percent increase in the excise tax on tobacco products is to ensure that the objectives of Public Health and Finance are met.
The Minister for Finance and Treasury, Rick Hou, admits the government needs more revenue, but says the health benefits from limiting tobacco use are significant.
The government says raising the price of tobacco through increasing excise tax has proven a very effective approach around the world to controlling tobacco use and discouraging young people from smoking.
