The sugar tax was introduced by the Chancellor in the March budget and is due to come into force in April 2018.
Nick Stewart, senior economist at Oxford Economics, said: “Early indications are that the soft drinks tax will lead to over 4,000 job losses across the UK.
“The impact will be felt across the wider economy, predominantly in hospitality and smaller retailers. These are significant losses considering we estimate the tax will only lead to a reduction of just five calories per person, per day.”
The report estimates that lower sales in the hospitality sector will reduce the industry’s contribution to the economy by £132 million.
Gavin Partington, British Soft Drinks Association director general, said: “Post-Brexit, securing investment and jobs is more important than ever. This research shows the soft drinks tax is not only ineffective in fighting obesity but will come at a significant price for the economy, costing thousands of jobs.
“As an industry we recognise that obesity must be tackled which is why we have invested heavily in reformulating drinks. Since 2012 this has led to a 16% reduction in sugar intake from soft drinks. The tax is therefore unnecessary and harmful to our economy.”