Experts Urge Stronger TAPS Bans to Protect Youth from Tobacco Harm

Islamabad — The Society for the Protection of the Rights of the Child (SPARC) organized a policy dialogue on the “WHO Global Tobacco Epidemic Report 2025 and Best Practices on TAPS and Graphic Health Warnings (GHWs)” to assess Pakistan’s progress in implementing the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) and MPOWER measures.

Speaking as Chief Guest, Murtaza Solangi, Spokesperson to the President of Pakistan, emphasized the urgent need to safeguard youth from tobacco influence by strengthening restrictions on tobacco advertising, promotion, and sponsorship (TAPS) and enhancing the visibility of graphic health warnings. He noted that tobacco causes over 8 million deaths globally each year, while 27 million Pakistanis use tobacco, resulting in 166,000 deaths annually. He stressed that preventive education, awareness, and the adoption of global best practices remain essential to reducing tobacco-related harm.

Dr. Mahesh Kumar Malani, Chairman of the National Assembly Standing Committee on NHSR&C, highlighted that promotional tactics, attractive packaging, and online visibility continue to influence youth. He stated that countries with comprehensive TAPS bans have observed a decline in tobacco use among younger populations and called for stronger regulations and improved enforcement in Pakistan.

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Dr. Shazia Sobia Aslam Soomro, Member of the National Assembly Standing Committee on NHSR&C, commended Pakistan’s progress but said further policy strengthening is required to close regulatory gaps. She emphasized that large, regularly updated graphic health warnings are proven to discourage smoking and deter youth from initiating tobacco use.

Barrister Dr. Muhammad Ali Saif, Former Advisor to the Chief Minister (KPK) on Information & PRs, said that TAPS loopholes, especially at points of sale and online platforms, remain a concern. Citing WHO findings, he reiterated that nations with strict enforcement have experienced a marked reduction in tobacco consumption.

Dr. Khalil Ahmad Dogar, Program Manager at SPARC, noted that subtle promotional activities still shape consumer behavior despite existing restrictions. He stressed that countries implementing complete bans on all forms of TAPS have demonstrated significant declines in tobacco use.

The session gathered policymakers, journalists, civil society members, academics, media professionals, and youth representatives. Participants reviewed Pakistan’s progress on GHW implementation and TAPS enforcement and emphasized the need for cohesive action and stronger regulations to advance tobacco control efforts nationwide.