Steuerpläne: Zuckersteuer könnte auch Zero-Getränke teurer machen

The German government plans to impose a sugar tax that could raise the prices of various beverages, including zero-calorie drinks, according to recent reports. Beyond soft drinks, the tax would apply to juices, milk beverages, iced teas, energy drink mixtures, and ready-made coffees. Even sugar-free drinks containing artificial sweeteners, such as Coca-Cola Zero, would likely be taxed.

The newspaper cites a paper from the Federal Finance Ministry to support these claims. According to the report, the tax is set to begin in 2027, earlier than previously anticipated in 2028. The German government aims to reduce sugar consumption and generate additional revenue through this tax. Unlike the initially planned targeted tax for stabilizing the healthcare system, this will be a general tax.

Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil (SPD) projects revenue of 650 million euros in 2027, followed by 450 million euros annually thereafter. The tax rate depends on the sugar content: 26 cents per liter for drinks with 4.5 to 7 grams of sugar per 100 milliliters, 32 cents for more than 7 grams, and 38 cents for over 10 grams. Drinks with artificial sweeteners would also incur the 26 cents per liter rate, regardless of sugar content.

Additionally, a standard VAT rate applies. Consumers could face significant price increases as a result. For instance, a two-liter iced tea currently priced at 2.10 euros could rise to approximately 2.72 euros based on the newspaper's calculations. A one-liter bottle of Coca-Cola might increase from 1.23 to 1.68 euros. Beneficiaries of the sugar tax include not only consumers but also soft drink manufacturers.