SPD party officials, including department head Lars Klingbeil, have refuted reports concerning plans by the Federal Ministry of Finance to levy a sugar tax that would also apply to sugar-free beverages. Klingbeil stated on social media on Wednesday that a sugar tax on drinks without added sugar “would make no sense,” adding definitively, “I won’t allow that. It won’t happen.”
He clarified that the plans leading to the media reports were merely an “internal working draft” that has neither political consensus nor been approved by the coalition. Klingbeil acknowledged that these discussions are valuable and necessary, concluding, “But in the end, I decide which law is put forward.”
The minister emphasized the importance of internal debate among his staff, stating that his team must be open in discussing ideas-some of which may ultimately not be implemented. He cautioned that treating every internal consideration as a formal political decision would hinder this openness, ultimately doing nothing to improve policy.
Despite his denial regarding the scope of the tax, Klingbeil reaffirmed the necessity of addressing the adverse health effects of excessive sugar consumption. “We must protect children better,” he asserted. “We have a health problem here whose consequences already burden our healthcare system. That is why we will act: through public awareness, but also through taxing sugary drinks.” He added that the specifics of these measures are currently being prepared.
