Sugar tax debate expands to zero-calorie drinks and alternative sweeteners

The debate over the socalled “sugar tax,” which imposes a levy on sugary drinks, is expanding to include zerosugar beverages and alternative sweeteners. Democratic Party lawmaker Kim Yoon is preparing a bill that would impose a levy not only on added sugars but also on drinks containing alternative sweeteners such as aspartame and sucralose. This discussion gained momentum in the National Assembly after President Lee Jaemyung mentioned reducing sugar use and reinvesting in healthcare last January. Other lawmakers have already introduced bills to impose levies on sugary drinks, and the level of the levy varies depending on the beverage’s volume and sugar content. According to the article, based on a 250mL can of cola, the levy could be calculated at up to 125 won depending on the bill proposed by lawmakers. In particular, Kim Yoon’s bill is drawing backlash from the industry because it also includes zerosugar drinks. In South Korea’s carbonated beverage market, the share of zerosugar products has risen rapidly in recent years, and the food industry is concerned that additional costs could affect consumer prices at a time when production costs are already rising. Supporters, on the other hand, see it as a proactive policy that would reduce sugar consumption and ease the burden of medical expenses. Views on the sugar tax are divided. Supporters point to its healthpromoting effects, while opponents raise concerns about the relatively greater burden on lowincome groups and young people, as well as the effectiveness of price regulation. Around the world, many countries have already introduced taxes or levies on sugary drinks, and some countries include products containing alternative sweeteners in the taxable range as well.