Estonia Approves Sugary Drinks Tax, Effective 2026

The WHO published a country case study on Estonia’s approval of a bill introducing a tax on sugary drinks, set to take effect in 2026. This legislation, referred to as the ‘lemonade tax’ aims to address public health concerns related to non-communicable diseases. Initial attempts in 2017 were prevented by industry influence and presidential rejection. However, a renewed effort in 2024 by the Ministry of Social Affairs involved a broader range of health stakeholders, which strengthened the policy dialogue process.

The bill has progressed through draft stages and is set to be implemented in 2026, with projections indicating it will generate approximately €25 million for the state budget in its first year.

Read the case study here.