Make companies cut sugar, Robinson questions $10B sugary drink tax

Opposition spokesman on finance Julian Robinson says the Government should force beverage manufacturers to cut the sugar in their products instead of imposing a $10 billion tax on sugary drinks, questioning whether the new levy is really about public health or simply raising revenue.

Speaking during his contribution to the 2026 to 2027 Budget Debate in Gordon House on Thursday, Robinson argued that if the Government is serious about reducing sugar consumption, it has a more effective option available.

According to Robinson, the administration could require local manufacturers to reformulate their beverages to reduce the sugar content and provide them with a specific timeframe to make the changes.

He said such a move would directly lower the amount of sugar Jamaicans consume.

Robinson also pointed out that the Government, through the school feeding programme, is the country's largest provider of meals and could use that platform to reduce sugar intake among students.

He further argued that many Jamaicans consume sugary drinks not necessarily out of preference, but because healthier options such as natural juices and coconut water are often priced out of their reach.

The opposition spokesman also questioned the Government's projected $10 billion in revenue from the tax, noting that if the measure was truly designed to reduce consumption, authorities should expect revenues to decline over time as people cut back on sugary drinks.

Robinson also criticised the planned environmental levy, which is projected to generate about $3.6 billion in the upcoming fiscal year.

He said despite being promoted as an environmental measure, the funds will go into the Consolidated Fund rather than being specifically directed toward protecting Jamaica's coastlines, forests, watersheds and other natural resources.

Robinson warned that the additional taxes could end up pushing up the cost of goods and adding further pressure on consumers.

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