The German Association of Cities is calling for the planned revenue of 450 million euros, derived from a sugar tax scheduled to be introduced on cola, soft drinks, and other sugary beverages starting in 2028, to be allocated directly to local municipal authorities.
Christian Schuchardt, Managing Director of the association, told the “Rheinische Post” that while the cities in principle welcome the tax, their key demand is the redirection of these funds. He explained that these revenues could be used to expand the consulting services provided by local health departments in neighborhoods, schools, and kindergartens, as well as to fund sports and movement programs for young people.
Schuchardt emphasized that health prevention for children and adolescents primarily takes place at the local level. He pointed out that sugary foods drive diseases such as obesity and diabetes, stressing that “the municipal social and health systems are the first to be affected by these impacts.” The ruling coalition (black and red) had previously agreed to implementing a sugar tax as part of its planned healthcare reform, with the stated goal of relieving pressure on health insurance funds.
