Health experts have assessed the proposed sugar tax in Lithuania: it could lead to positive changes

Sunday, Mar 16, 2025

ELTA

Debate on a sugar tax in Lithuania to boost defense funding; experts suggest it aids health but needs broader strategies.

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Health specialists view the potential introduction of a sugar tax in Lithuania, aimed at increasing the defense budget, as a possible measure to reduce the consumption of sugary drinks and sugar and associated health problems, though they stress it must be combined with other healthy lifestyle strategies. The Ministry of Finance proposes taxing sugary drinks to generate an additional 25 million euros for defense, suggesting two tariffs: 7.4 euros per 100 liters for drinks with no more than 8 grams of sugar per 100 milliliters, and 21 euros per 100 liters for energy drinks exceeding this limit. Experts note that while international examples show sugar taxes can reduce consumption, the Lithuanian context requires further study of economic, social, and legal aspects. The tax should complement public education on healthy eating, clear nutritional labeling, and government incentives for healthy food choices, alongside restricting unhealthy food advertising. Spanish experts caution that the tax alone is insufficient without broader educational and structural changes regarding diet. Currently, Lithuania focuses more on modifying food composition and consumer information, and while sugar consumption in Lithuania and the EU exceeds WHO recommendations, the government is considering various measures to address the health risks associated with high sugar intake.

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