News Bite: Drinks to be taxed based on sugar content
Jamaica is changing how sugary drinks are taxed.
The Government will now base taxes on how much sugar is in your drink—not just the size. Finance Minister Fayval Williams says the move targets rising cases of diabetes, obesity, and other NCDs.
Higher sugar = higher tax. Lower sugar = less tax.
The policy takes effect May 1, 2026, giving manufacturers time to adjust—and an incentive to cut sugar levels.
With over 32% of adults consuming sugary drinks daily and nearly 30% of children overweight, the shift aims to protect public health—not just raise revenue.
#Jamaica #publichealth #SugarTax #ncds #healthnews
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