Islamabad: Rising tobacco and nicotine use among Pakistan’s youth, especially around educational institutions, emerged as the central concern at a national review session on tobacco control held by the Aurat Foundation in Islamabad.
Participants from Parliament, government departments, health organizations, and civil society warned that easy availability of cigarettes, vapes, nicotine pouches, and flavored tobacco near schools is creating a growing public health threat. The discussion also pointed to a noticeable increase in tobacco use among women, indicating a shifting trend.
The session called for stronger legislation, faster policy action, and strict enforcement to counter the rapid spread of emerging nicotine products. Speakers emphasized that existing laws remain poorly implemented due to procedural delays, weak monitoring, and limited coordination between federal and provincial bodies.
The need for clear parental awareness, community engagement, and better recognition of new nicotine products was highlighted as an essential part of early prevention. Officials noted that families and schools often remain unaware of modern products marketed to young people.
Technical briefings identified major enforcement gaps and policy loopholes that allow the tobacco industry to expand its reach. Participants noted that companies are increasingly using social media trends, entertainment content, and youth-focused marketing to promote vaping in urban areas.
Government representatives reaffirmed ongoing federal efforts to implement the Prohibition of Smoking and Protection of Non-Smokers Health Ordinance 2002 and to tighten regulations where required. Provincial representatives also announced plans to introduce new resolutions to strengthen tobacco control.
Education sector officials raised alarms over the rise of nicotine products around private institutions and called for tougher regulatory checks. Regulatory authorities stressed the need for a broader social movement to counter tobacco use nationwide.
Closing the event, the Aurat Foundation reiterated its commitment to evidence-based advocacy, cross-sector collaboration, and long-term public awareness initiatives aimed at building a healthier, tobacco-free society.ISLAMABAD: In the wake of devastating flood and tax shortfall the Federal Government is planning to introduce a mini-budget aimed at raising at least Rs50 billion to support flood victims’ rehabilitation and address a widening tax shortfall.
Officials confirmed that new levies on luxury items and cigarettes are under consideration.
The proposed mini-budget seeks to impose additional taxes on luxury vehicles, cigarettes, and imported electronic goods. A levy equivalent to the regulatory duty that was reduced in June could also be reinstated on imported products.
According to Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) officials, a five per cent levy on electronic goods is under review. The price threshold for this tax has not yet been finalised.
The plan also includes a levy on luxury vehicles with engines of 1,800cc and above. However, officials noted that approval from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) would be required before such taxes can be implemented.
In addition, the government is considering imposing a Rs50 levy on each pack of cigarettes. Unlike other revenue streams, this levy will not be shared with the provinces and will go directly to the federal government.
The urgency for the mini-budget comes amid a significant revenue shortfall. The FBR reported that in August, Rs901 billion was collected against a target of Rs951 billion, leaving a Rs50 billion gap.
From July to August, tax revenue declined by nearly Rs40 billion compared to projections. The overall revenue target for FY2025 is Rs14,131 billion. However, officials said floods, reduced electricity and gas consumption, and sluggish business activity have hindered collection.
Read more: Pakistan Seeks Global Help To Assess Flood Damages
