Germany's push for a sugar tax and a ban on energy drinks for under-16s is set to be voted on by the country's assembly of regional states. The proposal, initiated by state premier of Schleswig-Holstein, suggests that manufacturers should be incentivised to reduce sugar content. It also includes a potential ban on the sale of energy drinks to children under 16 due to their high caffeine, taurine, and sugar levels. The proposed levy, which does not specify how it should be designed, proposes that revenue raised should be used for health initiatives. However, Germany's sugar industry association WVZ warns that a "punitive tax on sugar" could push manufacturers to replace sugar with artificial sweeteners without improving public health.