Fiscal Levy to Combat Sweetened Beverages Consumption: A Global Regulatory Approach

Sugar consumption has increased considerably in recent times. Its consumption has been considered an addiction and has gained attention by global healthcare agencies. Sugar consumption has serious health effects and is being documented as an aetiological factor for many systemic diseases. Experts have recommendations to control the consumption and suggested that there is excessive sugar consumption in the diet, especially added and refined sugars, among all age groups and around the globe. Taxation on such products has been a critical element of a comprehensive regulatory strategy. A lot of taxes have been introduced on such products, and sugar-sweetened beverages are primarily targeted due to their increasing consumption pattern. The objective of this study is to identify different types of taxes effective on sugar-rich dietary products, identify the countries around the globe that have introduced such taxes, and document the implementation year and amount of tax. This systematic literature review can become an important tool showcasing the essential findings from various countries around the globe. More than 50 countries have implemented such taxes, and if not, the tax on volume import duty has been increased for the products to reduce their usage. Beverages with higher sugar concentrations have increased taxes, resulting in increased prices, which should definitely control their usage. Specific studies are needed to understand the effectiveness of tobacco taxation as a key policy measure for driving success.