HDF Calls for Larger Health Warnings, Stricter Tobacco Advertising Regulations in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: (Staff Reporter) – The Human Development Foundation (HDF) convened a stakeholder policy dialogue in Islamabad to review Pakistan’s regulatory framework for Graphic Health Warnings (GHWs) and Tobacco Advertising, Promotion and Sponsorship (TAPS), bringing together parliamentarians, government officials and representatives of relevant institutions.

The dialogue focused on identifying weaknesses in existing tobacco control regulations, reviewing international best practices and exploring measures to strengthen the country’s regulatory framework.

During the session on Graphic Health Warnings, participants discussed shortcomings related to the size and rotation of pictorial health warnings displayed on tobacco product packaging. The discussion also considered international standards and practices aimed at improving public awareness of the health risks associated with tobacco use.

The session on Tobacco Advertising, Promotion and Sponsorship examined regulatory gaps in light of Article 13 of the World Health Organization’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC). Particular attention was given to challenges posed by the promotion of tobacco products through digital and social media platforms.

Ms. Shazia Rizwan, Parliamentary Secretary for Information and Culture, attended the event as the chief guest. Mr. Aftab Ahmed, Project Manager at the National Tobacco Control Cell, Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination (MoNHSR&C), joined the session virtually.

Dr. Rashida Batool, District Health Officer Islamabad, the Director of the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and representatives from the Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination, Ministry of Finance and other relevant institutions also participated.

In her concluding remarks, Ms. Rizwan stressed the need to increase the size of pictorial health warnings on tobacco packaging and ensure their regular rotation to strengthen public awareness of tobacco-related health hazards.

She also drew attention to shortcomings in existing TAPS regulations, particularly the tobacco industry’s increasing use of digital and social media channels for promotional activities and the possible impact on young people.

The dialogue provided an opportunity for stakeholders to exchange technical views, identify regulatory and implementation challenges, and discuss ways to improve coordination among government institutions. Participants particularly highlighted the role of the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination in supporting evidence-based tobacco control measures in Pakistan.