AIDS and the Private Sector

HIV/AIDS is affecting businesses in profound and costly ways. The epidemic poses a serious threat to global competitiveness for the South African private sector. Disease prevention and health promotion are not commonly thought to be business concerns, but HIV/AIDS is forcing a re-examination of this view. The corporate sector’s motive is to make a profit, but HIV/AIDS is a factor that now needs to be considered, as it not only increases the costs of production but also affects the entire business environment. This chapter looks at the mechanisms by which this happens; existing responses and what could and should be done. Of particular concern is the issue of burden shifting – a global phenomenon whereby costs are shifted to the public sector and ultimately to individuals and households