In a landmark development for public health in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the Regulation of Snuff (Naswar) Bill, 2026, has been introduced in the Provincial Assembly by Aamna Sardar, a senior legislator from Pakistan Muslim League-N.
This significant move comes as a major policy breakthrough, as naswar, widely used across the province, has long remained outside a structured regulatory framework.
The proposed legislation aims not to ban naswar, but to regulate and formalize its production, sale, and distribution in the interest of public health, particularly to protect children and young people.
The bill introduces a comprehensive system including mandatory licensing, restrictions on sales to minors, limits on retail locations near schools and public spaces, and a ban on informal and unregulated sales channels.
It also requires standardized packaging with clear health warnings, regulates ingredients, prohibits all forms of promotion, and strengthens enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance across the supply chain.
National Alliance for Sustainable Tobacco and Nicotine Control Pakistan extends its strong appreciation to Ms. Aamna Sardar for her leadership and commitment to advancing evidence-based public health reforms. Aamna Sardar stated: “Tobacco is a legal product, but it must be sold with responsibility and under strict regulation. This bill aims to discourage harmful use, especially among the younger generation, while ensuring the market operates within a clear, accountable framework. Our priority is to protect public health without creating unnecessary disruption.”
“This is a historic and balanced step. The bill does not seek to prohibit naswar but to bring it under a proper regulatory framework, which is essential for protecting public health while addressing ground realities,” observed Usman Afridi, Coordinator of the Alliance.
Qamar Naseem, a civil society activist, remarked: “For too long, smokeless tobacco has remained under-regulated. This legislation fills a critical gap by introducing accountability, transparency, and safeguards, especially for young people, while aligning with global best practices.”
Imran Takkar, child rights expert, added: “Easy access to naswar has exposed children to serious health risks. This bill is a timely intervention that prioritizes child protection by restricting access and reducing exposure without creating unnecessary disruption.”
Public health experts have welcomed the bill as a pragmatic and forward-looking initiative that balances regulation with social realities. The Regulation of Snuff (Naswar) Bill, 2026, marks a significant step toward a healthier, more responsible Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.