Sugar Levy Planned Before Year-End to Discourage Unhealthy Drinks
A levy on high-sugar products is expected to be introduced before the end of 2026 as the Government seeks to reduce consumption linked to diabetes and other non-communicable diseases.
Prime Minister Gaston Browne said the measure should be described as a sugar levy because its primary purpose is not to raise revenue. Instead, the Government wants heavily sweetened drinks and foods to become less attractive and less accessible.
Browne urged residents to drink more water, exercise and reduce their intake of soft drinks, processed foods, simple sugars and excessive starches.
He said unhealthy diets are shortening lives, burdening families and placing additional pressure on the healthcare system. He also urged people diagnosed with diabetes, hypertension or high cholesterol not to despair, but to manage those conditions through medication, diet, exercise, rest and regular monitoring.
The Prime Minister cited the high share of Caribbean deaths associated with non-communicable diseases and argued that regional populations may be particularly vulnerable to diabetes. Some of his discussion of possible genetic factors was presented as personal interpretation rather than a formal medical finding.
His central message was prevention: residents should take responsibility for their health before illness develops and closely manage any condition after diagnosis.
I hope something similar or more stringent is placed on tobacco related products…
PM I agree with you
Nice but let’s be honest, they tend to be more affordable than healthy options.
Honestly, I don’t have a problem with it. If the levy helps people cut back on all these sugary drinks, then maybe it’s worth it.
This is a great initiative. But it would go even further if the healthy options were made cheaper.
Increase the taxes on sugary drinks and I would add snacks whether sweet or savory. Zero rate ALL fresh fruit, ALL fresh vegetables, ALL pure juices.
Make a healthy lifestyle affordable.
I get the health side, but everything already expensive. Hope this doesn’t just put another strain on people’s pockets.