Taiwan’s Healthy Taiwan Promotion Committee is urging citizens to choose sugar-free drinks to reduce obesity risks. President Lai Ching-te leads the initiative, highlighting the importance of lowering sugar consumption.
Recently, the Legislative Yuan approved a bill that removes commodity taxes on unsweetened packaged beverages sold in stores. This law aims to promote healthier choices among consumers. Chang Chih-jen, chair of the Chinese Taipei Society for the Study of Obesity, suggested extending this initiative to hand-shaken beverage shops. He also recommended higher taxes for sugary drinks to discourage excessive sugar intake.
Taiwan has more than 28,000 bubble tea shops, generating over NT$133 billion in annual revenue. New stores open at a rapid pace, with more than 40 opening each month. Many consumers add toppings such as tapioca pearls, coconut jelly, or pudding, which greatly increase sugar content. Consequently, health experts warn that high sugar consumption contributes to metabolic syndrome and other chronic diseases.
Furthermore, the Health Promotion Administration reports that over half of Taiwanese adults are overweight or obese. Teen obesity affects more than 30% of teenagers, and these numbers continue to rise. The government emphasizes public awareness and prevention as key steps to improve overall health.
The committee is also advancing smart healthcare and the biomedical industry in Taiwan. For example, hospitals and clinics are now using AI to manage National Health Insurance data. This innovation allows a shared healthcare system that improves care coordination and patient outcomes.
In addition, cancer prevention programs, genetic testing technologies, and the medical device industry have received government support. The passage of the Regenerative Medicine Act further strengthens Taiwan’s medical capabilities. This law governs technologies like cell and gene therapy, providing hope for serious disease treatments and laying a foundation for regenerative medicine.
By encouraging sugar-free drinks and advancing healthcare technologies, Taiwan is taking active steps to combat obesity and chronic diseases. Citizens are now better informed about healthy beverage choices.
Moreover, the government’s policies support long-term public health improvements and medical innovation. Ultimately, promoting sugar-free drinks is not only a lifestyle choice but a national effort to foster healthier communities.
