Zusammenfassung:
Sin taxes are increasingly being used to discourage the consumption of goods perceived to harm individuals and society. This paper examines the impact of South Africa's Health Promotion Levy (HPL)-the first sugar tax implemented in Africa-on the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) in the country. Using comprehensive data from excise returns submitted by manufacturers and importers of SSBs, we find that the HPL was extremely effective in reducing the consumption of sugar through these beverages. Within two years of its introduction, the levy caused a substantial 33 per cent reduction in the consumption of sugar through taxable beverages. We also find that the consumption partially shifted to non-taxable beverages, resulting in an increase of 15 per cent in the consumption of non-taxable SSBs. These findings suggest that while the HPL is effective in reducing SSB consumption, policy adjustments, including broader product coverage and targeted use of tax revenues, could enhance its impact.