The Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) has officially appointed SGS as a Notified Body for the certification of sweetened beverages and approved SGS as an accredited laboratory for analytical methods determining added and total sugars and other sweeteners across beverages and drink mixes, supporting compliance with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) sugar tax mandate effective January 1, 2026.
Scope of products regulated
The mandate applies to all drinks and beverages except few products, please approach SGS for further details.
Provision of slab structure
To ensure transparency and fair taxation, the mandate introduces a slab structure based on sugar concentration:
- Low sugar: less than 5 g per 100 ml
- Moderate sugar: between 5 and less than 8 g per 100 ml
- High sugar: 8 g or more per 100 ml
Note: Products sweetened only with artificial sweeteners (no added sugars/other sweeteners) are proposed to be taxed at zero under this model. This structure encourages manufacturers to reformulate products with reduced sugar content, aligning with national health objectives while providing flexibility for innovation in product development.
Our capabilities
Our accredited laboratories in the UAE are equipped with advanced Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry (IRMS) sugar detection technologies, delivering precise measurement of sugar and sweetener content. Leveraging global expertise and local presence, we provide comprehensive services including:
- Testing and Certification of sweetened beverages under MoIAT-FTA requirements
- Product conformity certification under ECAS and EQM schemes
- Halal certification under UAE and GSO standards
- Comprehensive testing ensuring safety, quality and regulatory compliance
Partnering for compliance and consumer trust with the sugar tax mandate becoming effective on January 1, 2026, early preparation is essential. SGS stands as a trusted partner, helping businesses navigate regulatory changes, safeguard brand reputation and maintain consumer trust.
Please reach out to us via our webform or:
ecas@sgs.com
ae.multilab@sgs.com
Phone: +971505169835 | +97142283990
About SGS
SGS is the world’s leading Testing, Inspection and Certification company. We operate a network of over 2,500 laboratories and business facilities across 115 countries, supported by a team of 99,500 dedicated professionals. With over 145 years of service excellence, we combine the precision and accuracy that define Swiss companies to help organizations achieve the highest standards of quality, compliance and sustainability.
Our brand promise – when you need to be sure – underscores our commitment to trust, integrity and reliability, enabling businesses to thrive with confidence. We proudly deliver our expert services through the SGS name and trusted specialized brands, including Brightsight, Bluesign, Maine Pointe and Nutrasource.
SGS is publicly traded on the SIX Swiss Exchange under the ticker symbol SGSN (ISIN CH1256740924, Reuters SGSN.S, Bloomberg SGSN:SW).
