Overview
- The 2026 package would raise the levy on sugary drinks by 87% to 3.08 pesos per liter and introduce a new charge on beverages with non‑caloric sweeteners.
- An estimated 30% increase on tobacco IEPS would add 15–17 pesos per pack, and industry leaders warn the illegal cigarette market could reach about 50% next year.
- Small‑retail groups led by ANPEC say more than 60,000 neighborhood stores could close and 120,000 self‑jobs be lost due to reliance on soft drinks and tobacco sales.
- The administration says the aim is to cut soda consumption by up to 7% and direct any proceeds—projected at roughly 41 billion pesos—to diabetes and hypertension care.
- After two days of testimony before the Chamber of Deputies’ Finance Commission, private‑sector coalitions urged dialogue, phased changes or revisions ahead of a Monday vote.