Taxing soda

The talk is everywhere. Soda taxes undoubtedly raise money. But do they reduce obesity ?

Several countries are now looking at taxing soft drinks. In a way, this could be the worst thing to do.

It could just delay real action to tackle obesity by years.

Most advocates cite the evidence of Mexico. But …

• No one has demonstrated causality.
• Consumption trends in Mexico seem little different to neighbouring countries.
• Diet variants are still sold at the same price as regular versions.
• The Mexican Government is not expecting lower revenue because of changed behaviour.

Obesity is a much bigger problem than can be solved by one tax on one product group.