Oman to levy 50 per cent tax on sweetened beverages

Dubai: Oman’s tax authority has announced that starting October this year, the Sultanate will levy 50 per cent tax on sweetened beverages, according to Oman Observer.

Ready to drink beverages containing added sugar or sweeteners or any form of sugar will attract 50 per cent sugar excise tax beginning this October, said Sultan Al Habsi, chairman of Tax Authority.

Canned juices, fruit drinks, sports drinks, caffeine drinks and tea will fall under the new tax. 100 per cent natural fruit juices, milk and its derivatives containing a ratio of not less than 75 per cent of milk and Laban are excluded from the new sugar tax. Nutritional supplements, drinks for dietary and medical use are also excluded from the tax.

Alongside other GCC states, Oman earlier had levied a 100 per cent tax on alcohol, tobacco and energy drinks last year.