Sri Lanka College of Psychiatrists opposes the introduction of lower priced alcohol

Sri Lanka College of Psychiatrists has strongly opposed the introduction of lower priced alcohol, considering the wellbeing of the people.

They pointed out that the belief that reduced alcohol prices result in reduced consumption of illicit liquor is not substantiated by research findings.

“A crucial lesson was learnt in 1996 when the price of beer was lowered with the expectation of decreasing the consumption of illicit liquor. The results were contrary to what the government anticipated: a 200% increase in beer consumption”, while the prevalence of illicit liquor consumption remained unchanged. Hence, price reduction of alcohol only supports the intentions of the alcohol industry with clear detriment to the rest of the nation” they pointed out.

The Sri Lankan Government spent USD 885.6 million on both direct and indirect costs associated with alcohol-related health conditions in 2015.

“This amount has been rising over the years, and with greater affordability and use, healthcare costs will spiral. This will over-ride any perceived benefit from taxation by the excise department. The social and financial consequences of lack of efficiency of the workforce, crime, poverty, violence and other vices are not accounted for in any of the financial calculations”, they said.

 Therefore the association has requested the government to adhere to WHO laid down interventions which have proven successful globally to reduce both legitimate and illicit liquor consumption.