The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a stark warning to Pakistan: the country is facing a public health and economic crisis due to tobacco use, which is costing 164,000 lives and PKR 700 billion (US$ 2.5 billion) annually. WHO is calling for urgent tobacco control measures, including significant tax increases on all tobacco products, to combat this growing national burden.
Tobacco Use in Pakistan: A National Emergency
Tobacco use remains one of the leading causes of preventable deaths and diseases in Pakistan. The WHO emphasizes that no tobacco product is safe, regardless of brand or manufacturer. These products pose an especially grave risk to children, teenagers, and vulnerable populations, exposing them to lifelong health issues and early mortality.
“There is no such thing as a safe tobacco product… Tobacco is a devastating burden on public health, for the economy, for our children and for our grandchildren,” said Dr Dapeng Luo, WHO Representative in Pakistan.
Positive Impact of Tobacco Taxation: The 2023 Case Study
Research shows that tobacco taxation is one of the most effective tools to reduce consumption and improve public health outcomes. Pakistan has already seen some success:
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In 2023, a major tax increase on tobacco products led to a 19.2% reduction in tobacco use.
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26.3% of smokers reported cutting down on cigarette consumption.
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Federal Excise Duty (FED) revenue on cigarettes surged by 66%, from PKR 142 billion in 2022–23 to PKR 237 billion in 2023–24.
This dual benefit—saving lives and generating revenue—highlights the critical role of fiscal policy in health reform.
The Missed Opportunity: No Tax Hike Since February 2023
Despite the progress, Pakistan has not increased FED rates on cigarettes since February 2023, effectively making tobacco more affordable. According to WHO standards, taxation on tobacco products should amount to at least 75% of the retail price. Pakistan still falls short of this benchmark.
“Without additional measures, the harmful impact of tobacco on public health and the national economy will continue to jeopardize Pakistan’s efforts to advance the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” WHO warns.
WHO’s Ongoing Support and Strategic Recommendations
Pakistan ratified the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) in 2004, committing to implementing evidence-based strategies to reduce tobacco use. WHO continues to provide technical support to the Ministry of National Health Services Regulations and Coordination and the Federal Board of Revenue, particularly in:
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Tobacco tax policy
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Track-and-trace systems
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Public awareness campaigns
Recommendations by WHO for Pakistan
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Immediate Increase in Tobacco Taxes: Align with WHO’s 75% retail price recommendation.
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Implement Track-and-Trace System: Curb illicit trade and improve tax compliance.
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Youth-Focused Public Awareness: Educate children and teens on the risks of tobacco.
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Channel Tax Revenues to Health Programs: Use additional revenue to fund public health initiatives.
Tobacco and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Tobacco control is directly linked to multiple SDGs, including:
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Goal 3: Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being
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Goal 10: Reduce inequality within and among countries
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Goal 1 & 8: Eradicate poverty and promote economic growth
Unless decisive action is taken, the deadly impact of tobacco will continue to undermine Pakistan’s economic development, social equity, and health care infrastructure.
Pakistan at a Crossroads
The WHO’s latest report sends a clear message: tobacco is killing thousands of Pakistanis and costing the nation billions every year. With tax reform and strict enforcement, Pakistan has the tools to reverse this trend, save lives, and reclaim resources for national development.
As World No Tobacco Day nears, the government has a unique opportunity to lead boldly, protect its citizens, and take a meaningful step toward a healthier, tobacco-free future.
