Islamabad (Umar Hayat Khan): Dr. Nikhat Shakil, Convener of the Parliamentary Caucus on Child Rights (PCCR), has urged the government to significantly increase taxes on tobacco products, emphasizing the devastating health and social consequences of tobacco consumption in Pakistan.
Speaking during the budget session, Dr. Nikhat Shakil questioned why tobacco products had been exempted from additional taxation despite tax increases on numerous other goods and services.
“If taxes are to be imposed, then tobacco products should be taxed more heavily,” she stated. “There has been no increase in the Federal Excise Duty (FED) on tobacco products since 2023. At a time when taxes are being imposed on almost everything, it is difficult to understand why tobacco a non-essential and harmful product has been left out.”
Dr. Nikhat Shakil highlighted the enormous health burden caused by tobacco use in Pakistan. Citing available evidence, she noted that approximately 160,000 people lose their lives annually due to tobacco related diseases, translating to nearly 438 deaths every day.
“Tobacco smoking is not merely a personal choice; it is a major public health crisis,” she said. “Hundreds of lives are lost every day due to tobacco related illnesses, placing a tremendous burden on families, communities, and the national healthcare system.”
Expressing concern about children tobacco use, Dr. Nikhat Shakil pointed out that around 1,200 children are estimated to begin smoking every day in Pakistan. She stressed the urgent need for stronger tobacco control measures to protect children and future generations from nicotine addiction and its harmful effects.
Dr. Nikhat Shakil further emphasized that international evidence consistently demonstrates that increasing taxes on tobacco products is one of the most effective ways to reduce tobacco consumption, particularly among young people.
“When taxation increases, consumption decreases. Higher tobacco taxes can save lives, discourage youth from starting smoking, and generate additional revenue that can be invested in health and social development,” she added.
The Parliamentary Caucus on Child Rights (PCCR) has consistently advocated for stronger tobacco control policies, recognizing the direct impact of tobacco use on children’s health, well-being, and future prospects.