Protect Our Youth: Health Activists Call for End to Kiddie Pack Exports, Society for the Protection of the Rights of the Child (SPARC) and health activists have expressed deep concern over a proposal by the tobacco industry to alter Pakistan’s tobacco control regulations. The proposal seeks to allow the manufacture and export of 10-stick cigarette packs, commonly referred to as “kiddie packs,” which could have far-reaching implications for public health.
A Threat to Youth Health
The introduction of kiddie packs poses a serious risk to young people, increasing the likelihood of early-age smoking and higher addiction rates. Asiya Arif, Executive Director at SPARC, stated that Pakistan is already grappling with a severe public health crisis, and the economic burden of allowing kiddie packs could reach up to 50 billion rupees annually.
Contradicting WHO FCTC Obligations
Allowing the manufacture of kiddie packs for export to Sudan contradicts Pakistan’s obligations under the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC). Dr. Madiha Siddiqui, Pulmonologist, emphasized that Pakistani law previously aligned with the WHO FCTC, prohibiting the manufacture, sale, and import of cigarette packets containing fewer than twenty cigarette sticks.
Public Health Concerns
Prof. Dr. Matiur Rehman, Professor of Pulmonology, stressed the need for increased public awareness and education on the risks associated with smoking and the tobacco industry’s tactics. Dr. Khalil Ahmad Dogar, Program Manager at SPARC, added that the tobacco industry’s focus on Pakistan’s youth is evident in their push to introduce kiddie packs, which will increase the number of smokers, elevate healthcare costs, and compromise the future well-being of youth.
Call to Action
Public health advocates in Pakistan and 25 African countries are urging the government not to amend Pakistan’s strong tobacco control law. They emphasize that allowing kiddie packs will undermine Pakistan’s robust tobacco control regulations and exacerbate the public health crisis.
Comments are closed, but trackbacks and pingbacks are open.