Tax will help people quit smoking - Cancer Society

The Cancer Society welcomes recent announcements by the Hon Tariana Turia, Associate Minister of
Health, that an increase in tobacco tax is on the government’s agenda.

“Tobacco smoking is one of the main causes of cancer mortality in New Zealand and despite widespread
understanding linking cancer and smoking, around 20% of New Zealand people continue to smoke,” said
the society’s Tobacco Control Advisor, Navid Foroutan.

“The rate of smoking is higher among more vulnerable populations and these are exactly the people who
are most sensitive to any rise in price.”

National and international evidence shows that raising the excise tax on tobacco is a most effective
measure and proven to reduce smoking consumption.

“Smoking cessation is already a high priority for the government, but without introducing substantial tax
increases, it is unlikely smoking cessation efforts will be very successful,” commented Chief Executive,
Dalton Kelly. “We believe the tax increases will be most effective if they are substantial and regular, and
roll your own tobacco should be taxed at a higher rate to equalise its cost at the counter.”

The Cancer Society advocates that a fixed proportion of any tax increase, which will increase the
government’s revenue from tobacco sales (currently around 1 billion dollars), should be allocated to
health promotion and smoking prevention as well as cessation services and campaigns. Tax increases are
supported by New Zealanders, including smokers, especially if some of the funds are directed towards
helping smokers quit.