The General Tax Authority has announced a new excise tax law introducing updated measures on sugary drinks, including revised calculations for sweetened beverages.
The changes aim to reduce sugar consumption and encourage healthier lifestyles. Here’s a quick explainer on the new law and its rollout.
- Qatar has issued Law No. (2) of 2026, amending provisions of Law No. (25) of 2018 on Excise Tax to introduce a new taxation system for sweetened drinks.
- The amended law will come into force on July 6, 2026.
- It is a tax system where excise duty is based on the amount of sugar or sweeteners in a drink—higher sugar content results in higher tax.
Products Subject to the Tax:
The updated list includes:
Soft drinks
- Juices with added sugar
- Any beverages containing sugar or sweeteners
It also covers products that can be turned into drinks, such as:
- Concentrates
- Powders
- Extracts
- Other similar products
Purpose Behind the Tax:
The measure aims to:
- Reduce consumption of high-sugar products
- Raise public awareness about health risks
- Encourage manufacturers to lower sugar content
- Improve overall public health outcomes
Reporting Requirements:
- Businesses dealing with excise goods must comply with the updated law.
Anyone holding excise goods must:
- Submit a tax declaration
- Disclose stock levels at the time the law takes effect
- File through the Dhareeba Tax Portal
Qatar aims to strengthen and improve tax policy efficiency, align with international best practices, balance economic priorities with public health goals.
