Tax increase on sugary drinks to be proposed

BANGKOK, Aug 22 (TNA) - The Finance Ministry will propose tax increase on sugary beverage tax to the Cabinet for approval, said Somchai Poolsavasdi, Director General of the Excise Department. The new tax rate to be introduced is aimed at reducing obesity in Thai people and to encourage manufacturers to reformulate their products to contain less sugar. If the new measure if implemented will cover sugary beverages like soft drinks, green tea, juice and energy drinks. The tax rate on sugary beverages starts from 0.10 baht per litre for sugary drinks with a total sugar content of 6-8 g per 100ml to the highest rate at one baht per litre for 18 grammes or more per 100ml. (TNA)