Domesday Live

Sugar levy: how the rate has changed

Drink, tobacco, gambling and vaping. The Soft Drinks Industry Levy began in April 2018. It is paid by the makers and importers of drinks with 5g or more of sugar in every 100ml, at a lower rate up to 8g and a higher rate above that. Many firms cut the sugar in their drinks to avoid it.

Worth knowing

• The rates were frozen from 2018 to 2025. Since April 2025 they rise each year with inflation, with a catch-up for the years they were frozen.
• From 1 January 2028 the lower threshold falls to 4.5g and milk-based drinks with added sugar are included.