The government plans to introduce new legislation next year aimed at curbing the consumption of sugary drinks, part of a wider strategy to promote healthy living and reduce diet-related illnesses.

Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant announced the initiative during Thursday’s post-Cabinet press briefing, linking it to the administration’s ongoing efforts to make nutritious foods more affordable through the suspension of the Common External Tariff (CET) on essential items.

“Government is not only on a drive to reduce prices but also to ensure that we develop in our people the need to eat healthy,” Merchant said. “Sugar is the demon of all foods.” He added that the legislation on sugary drinks “should go to Parliament in the first quarter of next year.”

The measure will form part of a broader health policy framework that complements recent food price interventions and seeks to shift consumer behaviour toward better dietary choices.

While details of the proposed bill have not yet been released, Merchant emphasized that the Gaston Browne administration intends to go beyond existing CARICOM health commitments by taking proactive steps to address non-communicable diseases linked to sugar consumption.

The announcement comes as regional governments explore similar tax and labeling policies to discourage excessive sugar intake, aligning Antigua and Barbuda’s approach with global health advocacy trends.

Officials say the legislation will reinforce the government’s twin objectives of making healthy foods more accessible while discouraging products that contribute to obesity, diabetes, and other chronic conditions.