The World Health Organisation says it is concerned about the tripling of production capacity at Coca-Cola Amatil's Fiji plant.
Photo: AFP
With the installation of new equipment, Coca-Cola Amatil's Laucala facility now has the ability to produce 21,000 bottles per hour.
"We would encourage countries to consider increasing the taxation on sugar sweetened beverages" - Wendy Snowdon
The WHO's Wendy Snowdon says their recommendations around high sugar drinks remains the same, which is for people to reduce their intake.
Dr Snowdon said Coca-Cola Amatil may simply be reacting to the market.
"[It's] certainly of concern that there may be some increasing demand. Of course manufacturers are responding to what they see in the market.
"If there is an increasing demand for these sugar sweetened beverages then it does highlight the need for continued action to look at reducing intake."
Dr Snowdon said this action could include further taxes, restrictions on sale points and limits on advertising.
She also said increased production at Coca-Cola Amatil's Fiji plant may not entirely be taken up by high-in-sugar softdrinks.
"A number of the manufacturers in Fiji are increasing the variety of products that they have including some products that don't have added sugar and even bottled water but we certainly will continue to encourage people to limit their consumption of sugary beverages and to look at reducing their overall intake of free sugars."