The Government has cutback duty on sanitary wear material Minister Patrick Chinamasa
Minister Patrick Chinamasa

Minister Patrick Chinamasa

Auxilia Katongomara, Chronicle Reporter
The Government has lifted duty on raw materials used to manufacture sanitary wear as a way of making the product affordable.

Presenting the 2017 budget in Parliament on Thursday, Finance and Economic Development Minister Patrick Chinamasa said the move was meant to support local industry and make sanitary wear affordable.

“In order to enhance competitiveness of locally produced sanitary wear products thereby promoting growth of the industry, it is proposed to avail duty free importation of raw materials, which include pulp, glue and virgin tissue, under manufacturers’ rebate, with effect from 1 January 2017,” he said.

Minister Chinamasa said the local industry was facing challenges that include high cost of raw materials and competition from international brands.

He said customs duty on sanitary wear was being suspended to enable the less privileged to access affordable products.

Minister Chinamasa said the country used about $11 million between January and September  this year to import sanitary wear products, showing a sharp decrease from last years’ $23 million.

Women groups have always advocated for a programme that makes sanitary wear free and accessible to all women.

Rural women and girls are the most affected as they often resort to using unhygienic ways.

-@AuxiliaK

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