Exploring obstacles to the implementation of a sugar tax to address the growing burden of NCDs in Bangladesh: a qualitative case study.
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) account for 74% of global deaths, with low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) bearing a disproportionate burden. In Bangladesh, NCDs are responsible for 66% of all deaths, projected to rise to 75% by 2030. A major contributor to this trend is the high consumption of free sugars, particularly through sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs). Although SSB taxation has been shown to reduce sugar consumption and improve health outcomes, Bangladesh has yet to implement such a tax. This study explores the perspectives of key stakeholders involved in the development of a proposed sugar tax on foods and non-alcoholic beverages in Bangladesh.
A qualitative study was conducted, involving thirty key informant interviews with interest holders from government, private industry, civil society, and public health sectors. Data was analyzed thematically. The study examined the feasibility, challenges, and opportunities associated with implementing a sugar tax in Bangladesh.
Several factors were identified as barriers to the development of a sugar tax. These include a policy paradigm influenced by socio-cultural beliefs that resist regulatory food policies, lack of leadership from the Ministry of Health, strong opposition from the private industry, and limited awareness among key policymakers about the link between diet and non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The power imbalance between the private sector and public health authorities further hinders progress. Despite these challenges, interviewees suggested measures to support the tax's adoption, including strengthening the Ministry of Health's leadership, promoting inter-ministerial collaboration, and increasing public awareness through media advocacy.
The lack of government leadership and strong industry opposition present significant obstacles to implementing a sugar tax in Bangladesh. To overcome these challenges, sustained advocacy for decisive leadership and consistent government and public health messaging is crucial. A coordinated approach will be necessary to advance this policy and effectively address diet-related non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
A qualitative study was conducted, involving thirty key informant interviews with interest holders from government, private industry, civil society, and public health sectors. Data was analyzed thematically. The study examined the feasibility, challenges, and opportunities associated with implementing a sugar tax in Bangladesh.
Several factors were identified as barriers to the development of a sugar tax. These include a policy paradigm influenced by socio-cultural beliefs that resist regulatory food policies, lack of leadership from the Ministry of Health, strong opposition from the private industry, and limited awareness among key policymakers about the link between diet and non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The power imbalance between the private sector and public health authorities further hinders progress. Despite these challenges, interviewees suggested measures to support the tax's adoption, including strengthening the Ministry of Health's leadership, promoting inter-ministerial collaboration, and increasing public awareness through media advocacy.
The lack of government leadership and strong industry opposition present significant obstacles to implementing a sugar tax in Bangladesh. To overcome these challenges, sustained advocacy for decisive leadership and consistent government and public health messaging is crucial. A coordinated approach will be necessary to advance this policy and effectively address diet-related non-communicable diseases (NCDs).