In light of rising rates of chronic disease and growing awareness of the health risks associated with excessive sugar consumption, governments around the world are stepping up efforts to promote healthier lifestyles. In this interview with Dental Tribune International, Dr Wu Jing, director of the National Center for Chronic and Noncommunicable Disease Control and Prevention at the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, discusses the importance of policy interventions in reducing free sugar consumption in China. She also outlines key national initiatives, cross-sectoral collaboration and the political commitment driving China’s comprehensive approach to chronic disease prevention.