South African Ministry Of Finance Considers Sugar Tax On 100% Juice

The South African Ministry of Finance is considering a health promotion tax (commonly known as a "sugar tax") on 100% pure fruit juice, which currently applies to a range of soft drinks and sugar-sweetened juices, according to a report on the 24-hour South African News 24-hour website on March 2. But not for 100% pure juice. Previously, the South African Ministry of Finance decided in its annual budget report to increase the health promotion tax on beverages containing more than 4 grams of sugar per 100ml from 2.21c/g to 2.31c/g from April 1, 2022, and said it would consider Lowering the 4g threshold and extending the taxation to 100% pure fruit juice. The Consumer Goods Council of South Africa (CGCSA) has warned that raising the "sugar tax" will lead to "unintended unemployment consequences" and further cost the livelihoods of many sustainable farmers, especially as the South African government implements a sugar master plan to boost the industry as well as protecting it from import competition.