The aim of this proposal is to reduce the consumption of these products, especially among children.
The Ministry of Health has initiated a proposal to increase excise taxes on chips, snacks, crackers, and sweet drinks, aimed at reducing their consumption among children. This proposal has been put forward for discussion involving citizens, international organizations, and government structures.
As part of the new approach, the ministry proposes to change the existing mechanism, which currently has a uniform excise tax of 3 soms on sugar-containing beverages, and to implement a differentiated system. According to this system, the excise rate will depend on the sugar content in the drinks:
- up to 5 grams of sugar per 100 milliliters — 5 soms per liter;
- from 5 to 8 grams — 7 soms per liter;
- from 8 to 11 grams — 9 soms per liter;
- more than 11 grams — 11 soms per liter.
According to the ministry, such a system will encourage manufacturers to reduce the sugar content in drinks and help form healthier habits among consumers.
Additionally, it is proposed to introduce a fixed excise tax of 20 soms per liter on energy drinks, considering their high sugar and caffeine content, as well as their impact on the health of adolescents.
A similar approach is also planned to be applied to products with high salt content, such as chips, snacks, and crackers.
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