German Government Announces Sugar Tax on Sweetened Drinks, Raising Prices

The federal government plans to introduce a sugar tax on beverages with high sugar content starting in 2028. Drinks containing more than five grams of sugar per 100 ml will be taxed at 26 cents per litre, and those exceeding eight grams will face a 32‑cent per litre levy, modeled after the UK system.

Consumer group Foodwatch calculated the possible price impact on popular drinks. A 0.5‑litre can of the energy drink “Gönrgy Apfelringe,” with 65 g of sugar, could cost 16 cents more, while other drinks such as “Durstlöscher Multivitamin 12‑Frucht” would see a similar increase. Lower‑sugar options like “Capri‑Sun Orange” would only rise by about five cents.

Meanwhile, the federal agriculture ministry has been accused of overstating voluntary sugar‑reduction achievements. An internal report showed a 9.1 % decline in sugar content from 2018 to 2024, yet the ministry’s press release claimed a 15 % reduction. Minister Alois Rainer (CSU) rejects the tax, favouring voluntary agreements, while Health Minister Nina Warken (CDU) supports the levy to fund health‑care costs and curb sugar‑related diseases.