BERLIN, Oct 14 — Germany’s governing coalition has agreed to introduce a tax on sugar-sweetened beverages starting July 1, 2027, resolving differences that had delayed the measure.
Anadolu Ajansı reported that the Finance Ministry said drinks with at least 5g of sugar per 100ml will face a levy of 26 cents per litre, rising to 32 cents per litre for those with 8g or more, according to a draft obtained by German media outlet RND. The Cabinet is expected to endorse the plan on Wednesday.
Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil of the centre-left SPD aims to raise revenue for the federal budget while encouraging manufacturers to reduce sugar content and offer healthier products. Officials project the tax will generate about €690 million (RM3.15 billion) in 2027 and €925 million (RM4.22 billion) in 2028.
Public broadcaster ARD reported that the Chancellery blocked his earlier proposal at the start of the month.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz faced pressure from his conservative CDU party after several state-level party officials argued that the levy amounted to state intervention and would impose unnecessary costs on consumers.
The measure comes as Germans consume far more sugar than the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends. The WHO advises people of a healthy weight to limit sugar intake to no more than 50g a day, and preferably less than 25g, or about six teaspoons.
Men in Germany consume an average of 78g a day and women 61g. Including other sources of sugar, daily intake can reach 100g.
