WHO warns Tobacco Damage in Pakistan is Seven Times Higher than Industry Tax Revenue

ISLAMABAD – Ahead of World No Tobacco Day on 31 May, World Health Organization (WHO) issued warning over the growing tobacco crisis in Pakistan, revealing that smoking and nicotine addiction are claiming nearly 164,000 lives annually while draining more than PKR 1,800 billion, US$6.6 billion, from national economy every year. WHO said the damage caused by tobacco is now seven times greater than the total tax revenue generated by the tobacco industry in Pakistan, exposing what health experts describe as a devastating public health and economic emergency. The global organization warned that tobacco and nicotine companies are aggressively targeting children and teenagers through modern marketing tactics and attractive nicotine products designed to hook young users into lifelong addiction. According to WHO, all tobacco and nicotine products including cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, e-cigarettes, and even illicit products pose serious health risks. Experts stress that tobacco remains one of the leading causes of preventable deaths worldwide, triggering deadly illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, stroke, and chronic lung disorders. WHO estimates that tobacco kills up to half of its users who fail to quit. To mark World No Tobacco Day, WHO has launched a global campaign under the theme “Unmasking the appeal – countering nicotine and tobacco addiction,” aimed at exposing how the tobacco industry continues to redesign and market its products to attract younger generations while sidestepping stricter regulations. The organization also raised concern over Pakistan’s tobacco taxation policy. According to WHO, cigarette Federal Excise Duty (FED) rates have remained unchanged since February 2023, effectively making cigarettes more affordable despite rising inflation. Current tax levels also remain below WHO’s recommended benchmark of 75% of the retail price. Research cited by WHO shows that increasing tobacco taxes not only reduces smoking rates but also boosts governmen