Finanzen: Was eine Zuckersteuer für die Limo-Preise bedeuten könnte

In Germany, a new tax on sugary drinks has been introduced by the federal government. The tax aims to encourage drink manufacturers to use less sugar in their products, thereby protecting the health of children and young people, according to the Finance Ministry. The tax will apply to sweetened drinks containing at least five grams of sugar per 100 milliliters, including energy drinks and fruit and vegetable juices.

However, alcoholic beverages, non-alcoholic beers, wines, cocktails, and zero-calorie drinks with sweeteners will not be taxed. The tax rate will be 26 cents per liter for drinks with 5-8 grams of sugar per 100 milliliters and 32 cents per liter for drinks with more than 8 grams of sugar per 100 milliliters. Small, independent manufacturers will be exempt from the tax, but the exact thresholds have not been determined.

The German government intends to exempt breweries and distilleries producing up to one million liters annually, but only if the European Commission allows it. If the Commission objects, the German government hopes to provide exemptions for breweries and distilleries producing up to 70,000 liters annually. The tax is expected to generate around 690 million euros in its first year, rising to 925 million euros by 2028.

However, this could decrease in subsequent years as the market adapts and reduces sugar content. While the SPD supports the tax, the CDU (Christian Democratic Union) and CSU (Christian Social Union) are opposed, citing rising living costs and potential job losses in the beverage industry. The CDU argues that a sugar tax sends the wrong signal, as it does not promote health but instead asks citizens to pay more for the government's budget deficits.