Sugar tax reforms 2026: Protecting children's health and combating obesity

Dr. Nasr Al-Din Al-Sharif, a consultant pediatrician, confirmed that the amendments to the sugar tax on sweetened beverages, which are scheduled to be implemented at the beginning of 2026, represent a qualitative shift aimed primarily at strengthening the health of society, and protecting children in particular from the serious health consequences resulting from excessive consumption of sugars.

Dr. Al-Sharif explained that soft drinks and sweeteners are a major source of what is known as “empty calories,” as they contain amounts of sugar that far exceed the body’s daily needs, leading to weight gain and high blood glucose levels without providing any significant nutritional value, which makes them a silent threat to public health.

Global context and national vision

These anticipated amendments are part of a comprehensive strategy adopted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, in line with the objectives of Vision 2030 and the Quality of Life Program, to enhance public health and reduce the burden on the healthcare sector. This step represents an evolution of the financial policies that the Kingdom began implementing in 2017 with the introduction of the selective tax, now moving to a more precise phase that directly links the tax amount to the sugar content of the product.

At the international level, these measures are in line with the recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO), which urges countries to use fiscal policies to reduce the consumption of sugary drinks, a strategy that has proven successful in several countries around the world in reducing obesity rates and prompting manufacturers to reformulate their products to be less harmful.

The mechanism of the amendments and their economic and health impact

Dr. Al-Sharif pointed out that the new methodology for the amendments will make the tax variable based on sugar content; the higher the sugar content, the higher the tax. This smart approach is not primarily aimed at revenue collection, but rather at modifying consumer behavior. It encourages families to refrain from purchasing high-sugar products and, in turn, creates a strong incentive for companies to produce healthier alternatives or beverages with lower sugar content to avoid higher taxes.

Health risks: Beyond weight gain

Dr. Al-Sharif detailed the serious health damages resulting from excessive consumption of sugary drinks, emphasizing that they are not limited to childhood obesity, but extend to include:

• Increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes at a young age.
• The likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease increases with age.
• Enamel erosion and tooth decay result from the combination of sugar and acids.
• Appetite disorders and rejection of beneficial natural foods.
• Mood swings and lethargy resulting from fluctuating insulin levels in the blood.

Practical steps for a healthy lifestyle

Dr. Al-Sharif emphasized that legislation alone is insufficient; it must be complemented by societal awareness. He advised parents to replace soft drinks with healthier options such as water, natural milk, and unsweetened fresh juices, and suggested using natural flavorings for water, such as lemon slices or fruit, to make it more appealing to children.

He concluded by emphasizing that reducing sugar intake is a real investment in the future of children, calling for the cooperation of families, schools, and the media to build a nutritionally conscious generation that enjoys sound physical and mental health.