Tax Increases on Soft Drinks, Tobacco, and Betting in 2026: What You Need to Know

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October 23, 2025

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Introduction

In this episode of “Economy Without Monotony,” Roberto Colín, a certified public accountant and member of the Technical Committee of the Mexican College of Public Accountants, discusses recent tax changes approved by the Chamber of Deputies in the Federal Income Law 2026, the Federal Fiscal Code, and the Special Tax on Production and Services (IEPS).

Key Changes in Taxes

Starting in 2026, you will pay more for soft drinks, flavored beverages, cigarettes, and betting platforms. Colín explains these changes in detail.

Soft Drinks and Flavored Beverages

Increased taxes: The excise tax on soft drinks and flavored beverages will rise, leading to higher prices for consumers.

Tobacco

Higher cigarette prices: The tax on tobacco products will increase, making cigarettes more expensive.

Betting and Gambling

Tax on online bets: The government will impose a tax on bets placed through various platforms, aiming to discourage excessive gambling and generate additional revenue.

Who is Roberto Colín?

Roberto Colín is a certified public accountant and a member of the Technical Committee of the Mexican College of Public Accountants. His expertise in tax law and fiscal matters makes him a reliable source for understanding the implications of recent tax changes.

Impact on Consumers and Industries

These tax increases are expected to have several effects on consumers and industries:

  • Consumer behavior: Higher prices may lead to changes in consumer preferences, with some opting for cheaper alternatives or reducing their consumption.
  • Industry response: Companies in the soft drink, tobacco, and gambling sectors may adjust their strategies, such as reformulating products, investing in marketing, or lobbying for changes in tax policies.
  • Government revenue: The primary goal of these tax increases is to generate additional government revenue, which can be used for public services and infrastructure projects.

Key Questions and Answers

  1. Question: What changes have been made to the tax laws?
  2. Answer: The Federal Income Law 2026, the Federal Fiscal Code, and the Special Tax on Production and Services (IEPS) have been updated to include increased taxes on soft drinks, flavored beverages, cigarettes, and online bets.

  3. Question: Who is Roberto Colín, and why is his opinion important?
  4. Answer: Roberto Colín is a certified public accountant and member of the Technical Committee of the Mexican College of Public Accountants. His expertise in tax law and fiscal matters makes his insights valuable for understanding the implications of these changes.

  5. Question: How will these tax increases affect consumers?
  6. Answer: Consumers may experience higher prices for soft drinks, flavored beverages, and cigarettes. This could lead to changes in consumer behavior, such as opting for cheaper alternatives or reducing consumption.

  7. Question: What impact will these changes have on industries?
  8. Answer: Companies in the soft drink, tobacco, and gambling sectors may need to adjust their strategies, such as reformulating products, investing in marketing, or lobbying for changes in tax policies.

  9. Question: What is the primary goal of these tax increases?
  10. Answer: The main objective is to generate additional government revenue, which can be used for public services and infrastructure projects.