Call to remove VAT and import duty in condom procurement

By Kuda Pembere

Organizations in condom programming and distribution have called for the removal of Value Added Tax (VAT) and import duty on private sector condoms noting it will them more affordable.

In separate statements commemorating International Condom Day, Population Services for Health (PSH) and AIDS HealthCare Foundation (AHF) Zimbabwe said the removal will improve availability of condoms to the public.

With condoms playing a major role in preventing HIV, Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and unwanted pregnancies, there are public sector condoms which are availed for free mainly in public health institutions unlike private sector condoms which come at a cost while being much preferred amongst the populace.

Yet PSH, the distributor of Protector Plus condoms said the supply for condoms in the commercial sector is been dwindling over the past years.

The commercial sector’s condom supply has been decreasing over the past two decades, partly due to higher taxes (VAT and Import Duty) on condoms, which make commercial condoms expensive and unviable,” said the organization.

“A key aspect of this effort is advocating for increased domestic funding for condoms and the removal of VAT and import duty on condoms.”

Added PSH, “As we observe this day, we want to emphasize the shortage of domestic funding for condom procurement and call for the removal of import duty and VAT for condoms. This will make condoms more affordable in the market and secure the future availability of condoms without donor funding.”

PSH also bemoaned low domestic funds given to condom procurement in Zimbabwe.

“While Zimbabwe has achieved considerable success in condom programming, more work needs to be done to address the challenges that threaten to reverse the gains.

“The condom program heavily relies on donor support which has reduced over the years, negatively impacting funding for public and social marketing sector condoms, which serve the marginalized communities and low-income earners.

“The shortage of domestic funding for condom procurement and related programming further worsens the situation,” PSH said.

AHF Zimbabwe argues that removal of these taxes on condom procurement may drop the prices in commercial condoms.

“Condoms remain a critical weapon in the fight against HIV/STI Transmission. We therefore need to ensure that there is improved access to condoms to all key populations. One such group is the artisanal miners” said AHF Zimbabwe country program manager. Dr Enerst Chikwati. “I order to improve availability and access we need to remove all barriers in condom procurement. The government of Zimbabwe could consider wavering VAT on private sector condom. This will make the private sector condom affordable”