By Progress Godfrey
ABUJA – The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has warned that the proposed Sugar-Sweetened Beverages (SSB) tax could threaten jobs, weaken investment and strain small businesses, urging lawmakers to halt further action.
The chamber called for the suspension of the bill already approved by the Senate and asked the House of Representatives to reconsider the proposal.
The Chamber, in a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by its Media and Strategy Officer, Olayemi John-Mensah, said the planned shift from a flat excise duty to a retail price-based levy would increase pressure on businesses across the beverage value chain.
The group noted that manufacturers, distributors, retailers and informal traders could face rising costs amid inflation, forex volatility and high energy prices.
Speaking on the development, the President of ACCI, Chief Emeka Obegolu said, “We are not choosing between health and wealth; we are advocating a policy framework that achieves both. Nigeria can improve public health outcomes while preserving jobs, supporting investments, and maintaining the competitiveness of its manufacturing sector.
“The objective should be to encourage healthier consumption patterns without imposing unintended consequences on businesses and consumers.”
The chamber warned that the new model could create uncertainty, complicate planning and raise compliance costs for investors.
It added that fiscal measures should support both public health goals and economic growth without discouraging productivity.
“Consequently, ACCI recommends a balanced, evidence-based, and consultative approach to achieving public health goals without undermining industrial competitiveness.
“Specifically, the Chamber urges lawmakers to suspend further consideration of the proposed percentage-based levy and engage stakeholders in broader consultations,” Chief Obegolu added.
The ACCI also pushed for a sugar-content-based tax system to encourage product reformulation and reduce sugar levels.
It further urged government to ensure transparency in the use of any revenue generated, particularly for health education and disease prevention programmes.
The ACCI reaffirmed its commitment to constructive engagement with government, lawmakers, regulators, and industry stakeholders in developing policies that simultaneously promote public health, protect jobs, strengthen private sector competitiveness, and advance Nigeria’s economic development.
