Singapore to ban sugary drink ads to curb consumption

SINGAPORE: The health ministry of Singapore has decided to ban advertisements for certain fizzy drinks to curb consumption of sugar in the city-state.

The health ministry took the decision as part to take measures in curbing consumption of sugar in the country, which has some of the world’s highest diabetes rates.

Singapore has one of the highest rates of diabetes in the world, partly caused by its fast-aging population and a culture of eating out at inexpensive hawker centres.

Certain high-sugar soft drinks and juices also will be required to bear “unhealthy” packaging labels.

The ban will apply across television, print, billboards and online channels such as social media websites.

Also read: Living With Diabetes? 5 Tips To Manage It!

According to the health ministry, Singapore also planned to consider taxes on sugary drink makers and importers, and even a total ban on the sale of some beverages.

Singapore’s action appears to go further than measures in other countries such as Mexico and Britain.