A non-governmental organization, the Orange Girl Foundation has expressed dissatisfaction in the government’s decision to implement a zero Value Added Tax (VAT) rate on only locally produced sanitary pads.

While commending the government for taking the initiative, the foundation believed it was not enough relief to users of the product.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Orange Girl Foundation noted that since most sanitary pads are imported into the country, it will be prudent for the government to remove taxes on all sanitary pads – locally made and imported.

According to the Foundation, it will be the only way to lessen the burden on girls who utilise to product.

“In addressing such a canker it’s prudent that the government does so fully and not partially. The question remains; how many companies produce sanitary pads locally? Most sanitary pads are imported into the country,” parts of the statement read.

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The Foundation further noted that, if the it is government’s aim to discourage imports, then it should consider establishing factories under the One District One Factory program which will produce sanitary pads.

“Some companies which were in the production of sanitary pads have collapsed. Government should consider assisting them get back on their feet.

“Although, the Orange Girl Foundation applauds government for making such a move, we believe that government could still do more. We are hoping against hope that this doesn’t become the usual rhetoric,” it concluded.