China Has Proposed Introducing A "sugar Tax"
8- 26.02.2026, 22:15
- 4,288
Because of the obesity of the population.
Chinese politicians are discussing the introduction of a tax on sugary drinks. Such a tax could help not only to solve budgetary issues, but also to reduce the negative consequences for public health associated with excessive sugar consumption. This is reported by Financial Times citing sources familiar with the discussion.
The publication notes that China remains one of the few major economies without a national tax on sugary drinks, while more than 116 countries have already introduced similar measures.
The tax on sugary drinks under consideration could not only bring revenue to the budget, but also affect consumption by reducing the risks of obesity, diabetes and other diseases that are associated with high sugar consumption.
A study by Peking University and the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences estimates that a 20% tax could prevent tens of thousands of premature deaths.
In July 2025, the WHO called on all countries to impose a tax of at least 20% of the retail price of sugary drinks, with the aim of raising prices by 50% by 2035.
According to the latest nutrition guidelines for China published in 2025, the average daily intake of added sugar should be reduced to 25g per person by 2030. Chinese authorities currently estimate the average daily intake at 30 g per person.
According to The Washington Post, more than half of Chinese adults will be overweight in 2025.