The global picture: How widespread are sugar taxes?

The World Health Organization (WHO) is advocating for countries to increase taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) to improve public health, increase government revenue, and promote health equity. With 108 national SSB taxes implemented worldwide, these measures aim to curb sugar consumption by raising the prices of sugary drinks, encouraging healthier diets, and potentially funding health initiatives. Despite opposition from the beverage industry, which argues that such taxes could lead to job losses and are ineffective, the WHO supports research to refute these claims. A study from JAMA Network Open, using data from the Global SSB Tax Database, shows that 51% of the global population is now covered by sugar taxes, with significant implementation in low- and middle-income countries. These taxes vary in design, with high-income countries preferring tiered taxes and lower-income countries opting for flat-rate taxes due to administrative ease. The study also notes the need for clearer definitions in sugar tax policies to avoid including healthier options like bottled water and to promote healthier choices more effectively.