The global picture: How widespread are sugar taxes?

The World Health Organization (WHO) endorses the implementation of taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) as a beneficial strategy for public health, government revenue, and health equity, with 108 countries already adopting such measures. These taxes aim to curb sugar consumption by raising the prices of sugary drinks, encouraging healthier dietary choices, and potentially financing health initiatives. Despite opposition from the beverage industry, which questions the economic impact and effectiveness of these taxes, the WHO supports research to address these concerns. A study in 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. The study notes the diversity in tax designs, with high-income countries preferring tiered taxes and lower-income countries opting for simpler flat rates. It also highlights the broad coverage of these taxes, especially in South Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean, and Africa, and points out inconsistencies in the taxation of bottled water, which may undermine health objectives.