Wednesday, April 29, 2026

What Is The Upcoming German Sugar Tax About?

 Well....the draft for the current German "sugar tax" (or rather "Zuckerabgabe"/sugar levy) ......is about a planned levy on sugary soft drinks (like Pepsi, Coke, lemonade, iced tea), set to start in 2028. 

NOTE....it's not a broad tax on all sugar or sweets.  It's strictly about sweetened beverages. 

The government approved the plan as part of a bigger health insurance reform to fight obesity/diabetes.   Yes, by the way...that BIG hole in the in statutory health funds (GKV).....that revenue would fill it.

So you wonder about the amount?

The ballpark amount (what they say)....450 million Euro per year in additional revenue. 

The catch?  Some folks believe....that as you increase the price....30 to 32 cents per can/bottle....folks will ask for sugar-free versions....and lessen use over time.

Using their figures....a 12-pack of Coke (with sugar)...would have around 3.84 Euro in sugar-tax cost.

My belief?  Consumption levels will 'survive' the first 6 months....to the level where you realize that the 40-odd sodas per month cost you 15 Euro more. If you were on the poverty-level....that's 15 Euro you can't afford pay.

So the first folks to quit?  Poverty-and-welfare class.

But I'll make this prediction.....some people will flip to sugar-free drinks avoiding the tax....but having some chemistry-wise gal....describe the formula for adding sugar to the drink....to get the right taste.  

My own taste?  I've quit most sugar drinks since 2010....drinking a rare soda on the plane or in the airport.  The non-sugar sodas?  Crap....I've tried probably 15 different types since 2010....with all of them non-tasty. 

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