Current Affairs - International - Discussion

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) will begin enforcing a sugar-based excise tax on sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) from January 2026. This policy introduces a variable tax rate calculated per litre, depending on the sugar content per 100ml of the drink. The more sugar a beverage contains, the higher the tax levied on it. The primary goal of this move is to reduce excessive sugar consumption and encourage manufacturers to reformulate their products with lower sugar levels. By targeting sugar intake through taxation, the UAE is taking a preventive approach to combat rising health issues such as obesity and diabetes.