Thai Excise Department is pushing forward with ‘salt tax’ using tiered model, indirectly boosting the health food market. This new regulation comes after the implementation of the sugar tax, which took full effect on 1 April 2025.
Officials reveal that the new tax will adopt a tiered-rate structure similar to the sugar tax. Industry observers are closely watching how this policy will impact the snack and other food sectors, where companies are already accelerating development of ‘low sugar’ and ‘low sodium’ products to stay competitive. Experts point out that these tax measures are set to fundamentally reshape the market landscape.
Consultations are underway with key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Public Health, food and beverage manufacturers, the Thai Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Federation of Thai Industries, and bodies advocating for reduced salt consumption, to ensure that the policy aligns with current market conditions.
According to WHO guidelines, the daily sodium intake should not exceed 2,000 mg per person. However, Thais consume more than twice that amount—around 3,600 mg per day. Currently, the top 3 high-sodium foods in Thailand include instant noodles, snacks, and frozen foods.
The Excise Department will identify target products and set sodium content criteria to determine the tax structure. Essential foods for daily living will also be considered for special guidelines.
