Abstract
This study examined the relationship between per capita sugar consumption and per capita real GDP using cross-country panel data and time series data from Japan. Globally, taxation of sugar-sweetened beverages has been discussed as a way to reduce sugar intake and prevent lifestyle-related diseases. However, in Japan, sugar consumption has reduced without any policy restriction since the 1980s, presenting an exception to the global trend. Analyzing global trends in the relationship between sugar consumption and income level can help identify commonalities in preferences towards sugar consumption among consumers. The results of this study consist of the following three findings. First, the global trend is that as income increases, sugar intake increases gradually and does not decrease. Second, this trend of income increase being associated with sugar intake increase may be changing slightly since 1992 in high income countries. Third, the decrease in sugar intake in Japan is not necessarily influenced by income. It is hoped that studies in this field will accelerate the discussions towards keeping sugar consumption at an adequate and healthy level.
