Taxation

Budget 2025 has increased the sugary drink tax rate and sparked discussions on introducing a fat tax—but can we tax our way out of diabetes and obesity?

Increment in the sugar tax rate is a step in the right direction, given the rapidly rising rate of diabetes and sugary drinks consumption among Malaysians. However, stronger actions are needed to reduce the spread of diabetes and its related ill heal

Sugary food is not uncommon in our daily diet. It is consumed directly as a sweetener, or added to other food items, whether we realise it or not. Recently, sugar has also been a discussion topic for many, as the Malaysian government announced a tax of 40 cent per litre on sweetened beverages in the 2019 Budget.