Sugar consumption in Indonesia has reached an excessive level, as evidenced by the 2023 Basic Health Research (Riskesdas) data, which show a diabetes prevalence of 11.3 percent, indicating a significant increase compared to previous years. One of the main drivers of this surge is the widespread consumption of Sugar-Sweetened Beverages (SSBs), which contain very high sugar levels. These drinks are sold at relatively low prices and are widely available, leading to increased consumption.
Head of the Department of Health Behavior, Environment, and Social Medicine at the Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FK-KMK UGM), Professor Yayi Suryo Prabandari, explained that based on research conducted in several other countries, such as Australia, excise tax policies have proven to be one of the most effective ways to reduce the prevalence of diabetes in Indonesia.
“With the excise tax on SSBs, prices will become higher, which will make people think twice before buying them,” she said on Friday, Sep. 19, 2025.
Professor Purbandari stated that excise tax instruments on SSBs have already been successfully implemented in several countries.
Indonesia itself has initiated this policy since 2016, but it has yet to be enacted.
She believes that several factors contribute to the delay, making the decision-making process lengthy and complex.
For example, economic experts must carefully calculate the appropriate tax rate to ensure its effectiveness. In addition, negotiations with beverage companies are likely, as these companies may be “concerned” that their production will decline.
“They worry that their output and sales will decrease,” she added.
Professor Purbandari expressed hope that the SSB excise tax policy will soon be implemented, noting that it is an important step in preventing further increases in diabetes cases in the future.
She also urged the younger generation to act wisely, particularly when consuming sweet foods and beverages.
“In many developed countries, even though various policy instruments are already in place, education is still consistently provided,” she said.
Furthermore, Professor Purbandari emphasized that all health professionals should continue to educate the public about healthy living.
This includes raising awareness about the importance of reducing sugar consumption, the impact of excise tax, and the risks of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.
“Policy instruments are effective, but they will be even more effective if applied at multiple levels, through media education, health workers, health cadres, and community service initiatives, including campaigns using written messages placed in strategic locations,” she concluded.
Author: Jesi
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Lintang Andwyna
Illustration: Freepik