Advocacy Group Calls for Increased Taxes on Cigarettes to Combat Tobacco Menace in Pakistan

Islamabad: The Society for the Protection of the Rights of the Child (SPARC) has issued a press release urging the Pakistani government to prioritize increasing taxes on cigarettes rather than on utilities like electricity and gas. This call comes as the organization sheds light on the significant public health and economic costs associated with tobacco use in the country.

According to statistics shared by Malik Imran Ahmad, Country Head of the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids (CTFK), Pakistan faces a daunting challenge in addressing the prevalence of tobacco use. Approximately 31.9 million adults aged 15 and above are reported to be tobacco consumers, accounting for about 19.7% of the adult population.

Imran highlighted that tobacco-related illnesses, including cancer, diabetes, and heart diseases, contribute to over 160,000 deaths annually in Pakistan, impacting not only individuals but also families, communities, and the healthcare system.

Proposing an immediate 30% Federal Excise Duty (FED) increase in 2024, Imran emphasized that such a measure could help recover 19.8% of costs, effectively narrowing the gap between health burdens and tax revenues. He described this tax proposal as a ‘win-win’ solution for both public health and government revenue.

Dr. Khalil Ahmad, program manager at SPARC, emphasized that low cigarette prices serve as a catalyst for children and youth to initiate smoking. He pointed out that smoking-related illnesses and deaths result in substantial economic costs, amounting to 1.6% of Pakistan’s GDP each year.

Read more: High tax on cigarettes results in lower consumption: Study

Dr. Ahmad stressed the need for comprehensive strategies to combat the tobacco epidemic, including public health interventions, robust tobacco control policies, and awareness campaigns.

By addressing tobacco use through increased taxation and comprehensive strategies, Pakistan aims to mitigate economic losses associated with smoking-related illnesses, reduce the burden on its healthcare system, and protect its youth from the harms of tobacco use.