Should the UK emulate Taiwan and its junk food tax?

Amidst a global obesity crisis, Taiwan is set to introduce a junk food tax. The first of its kind, the scheme will apply to alcohol, candy and fast food and is a direct attempt to battle its current junk food culture, that mirrors that of the UK.

The move comes at a time when government officials in Taiwan have been called to action, as a result of figures that show that 25% of children there are obese before school age.

The bill, designed to implement the tax on sedentary foods, has been drafted by the Burea of Health Promotion and all profits from the move will be put towards a number of health awareness groups, formed to aid the long suffering health service in Taiwan.

Although the move has been given large backing, it will ultimately be subject to government approval in the New Year. Government officials however, have not been available for comment.

If the plan is given the go ahead, Taiwan will be the first country to impose a tax of this kind. weight problems are getting worse in Taiwan with 25 to 30 percent of children obese, and it will cause more strain on our national health system," said Beryl Sheu, the head of the organisation’s food nutrition division.

The initiative is also designed to encourage people to purchase healthier foods.