Kazakhstan hikes sugary drink taxes 18% to fight obesity crisis

Kazakhstan is set to raise taxes on sugary drinks by 18% in a bid to tackle rising obesity and chronic diseases. The move follows warnings from health experts about the dangers of excessive sugar consumption, particularly among children. Nearly one in four young people in the country now struggle with overweight or obesity. The Ministry of Health’s proposal aligns with recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO). The WHO advises that no more than 10% of daily calories should come from sugar. It also suggests a 20% tax on sugary drinks to cut obesity rates and related illnesses.

Sugary drinks, as defined by the World Cancer Research Fund, include those with added sweeteners like sucrose, high-fructose corn syrup, or fruit juice concentrate. Studies link these beverages to higher risks of heart attacks, type II diabetes, and other serious health problems. In Kazakhstan, 86% of all deaths stem from chronic diseases, raising alarms about public health. The government’s tax hike aims to reduce sales of unhealthy drinks by 16% while boosting water consumption by 41%. The World Bank has backed the plan, calling it a necessary step to curb childhood obesity.

If approved, the tax increase will target drinks with added sweeteners, pushing consumers toward healthier choices. Officials hope the measure will lower obesity rates and reduce the burden of chronic diseases. The policy reflects growing global efforts to combat sugar-related health risks.