Sugar-sweetened beverage regulations and nutrient profiling models in five South Asian countries: a scoping review of available evidence and policy gaps.

backgroundSugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) contribute to the rising burden of non-communicable diseases in South Asia. Evidence on existing regulatory approaches and the use of nutrient profiling models (NPMs) remains fragmented. This scoping review maps available evidence on SSB regulation in five South Asian countries.

methodsWe conducted a scoping review following Joanna Briggs Institute guidance and PRISMA-ScR. Seven databases and grey literature were searched for studies published up to January 2025. Eligible sources examined SSB-related regulatory approaches in Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Data were charted and synthesised across taxation, labelling, marketing and availability restrictions.

resultsSeventeen studies were included. Taxation was the most frequently reported policy, implemented mainly as ad valorem or category-based taxes, except in Sri Lanka where a sugar-based excise tax was applied. Labelling, marketing, and availability restrictions were limited and unevenly implemented. Only four studies reported the use of NPMs, largely confined to Sri Lanka. Evidence on policy effectiveness, enforcement, and equity impacts was limited. Industry interference and weak regulatory capacity were commonly reported barriers.

conclusionSSB regulation in South Asia is dominated by taxation, with limited use of nutrient-based approaches and weak implementation of complementary measures. Strengthening policy design, enforcement, and evidence on effectiveness is critical to advance SSB control in the region.