THE UK Government has confirmed that the soft drinks levy will be introduced in April 2018, despite industry opposition.
Draft legislation on a sugar levy has been published and the Government said it will announce final levy rates as part of next year’s Budget.
Under the proposed legislation, soft drinks producers will pay an additional levy on non–alcoholic beverages containing added sugar at a quantity of five grams per 100ml or greater.
The Government said that by introducing two thresholds, at five grams and eight grams of sugar per 100ml, producers and importers of soft drinks will be encouraged to reduce the sugar content in the drinks they supply.
Milk-based drinks and alcohol substitute drinks such as low and no-alcohol beer will remain unaffected by the new legislation.
The draft legislation was produced following a consultation with key stakeholders, which found 95% of medical and health bodies in favour of the levy, while 78% of manufacturers and associated trade bodies were opposed to the move, according to the Government.