United States warns Guatemala food labeling law could raise costs

The United States Embassy in Guatemala has expressed concern regarding Initiative 5504, the Healthy Food Promotion Law, warning that its implementation could increase the cost of basic goods for Guatemalan families.

The proposed legislation seeks to establish a front-of-package labeling system for processed and pre-packaged foods to alert consumers about high levels of sugar, fat, and sodium. However, the U.S. Embassy noted that creating a labeling system exclusive to Guatemala would impose additional costs on both local and American companies, which would likely be passed on to consumers.

The Embassy suggested that a harmonized labeling system across Central America would be a more effective approach, preventing trade barriers and preserving economic activity between Guatemala and the United States.

The initiative, originally presented in October 2018, remains stalled in Congress. Although a third reading was scheduled for October 13, the plenary session decided to remove it from the agenda following suggestions from deputies to review certain aspects of the project.