Islamabad: The Society for the Protection of the Rights of the Child (SPARC) has called upon the government to take decisive action to reduce the health and economic burdens associated with cigarette smoking by increasing taxes on tobacco products.
In a press briefing held in Islamabad on Thursday, SPARC officials emphasized the urgent need to address the alarming health implications linked to tobacco use, particularly smoking. They highlighted that smoking is directly correlated with a wide range of health issues, including lung cancer, heart disease, stroke, respiratory diseases, and various other cancers. Notably, smoking-related illnesses and deaths annually cost Pakistan approximately 1.6% of its GDP.
Malik Imran Ahmad, Country Head of Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids (CTFK), underscored the substantial economic toll of smoking-related illnesses on the healthcare system. He proposed a strategic approach to curb tobacco use and alleviate the strain on healthcare resources and the economy by advocating for an increase in cigarette taxes.
Ahmad urged for a 26.6% Federal Excise Duty (FED) hike on cigarettes in the upcoming 2024 budget, estimating that such a measure could recoup nearly 19.8% of the healthcare expenditures allocated for smoking-related diseases. The proposed tax adjustment could potentially generate an additional revenue of 17 billion rupees for the government.
Highlighting the effectiveness of increased taxes in reducing tobacco consumption, Ahmad referenced studies demonstrating that higher prices serve as a significant deterrent, particularly for youth and low-income individuals. By making cigarettes more expensive, elevated taxes can dissuade young people from initiating smoking habits, thereby curbing future health complications.
Furthermore, the revenue generated from heightened tobacco taxes can be allocated towards bolstering public health initiatives and healthcare services. This strategic allocation of funds would not only aid in discouraging tobacco use but also contribute to mitigating its adverse impacts on society as a whole.
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