President Asif Ali Zardari has forwarded a petition calling for higher taxes on ultra-processed foods and beverages to the finance secretary and Federal Board of Revenue chairman for further review. The move brings renewed attention to growing concerns over dietary risks and the rising burden of non-communicable diseases in Pakistan.
The petition was submitted to the President’s Secretariat by Pakistan National Heart Association President Dr Masoodur Rehman Kiani. He urged authorities to consider stronger fiscal measures against unhealthy food products, arguing that taxation could play a key role in improving public health outcomes across the country.
According to the proposal, increased taxes on ultra-processed foods and sugary beverages could discourage excessive consumption. Consequently, health experts believe such measures may help reduce long-term risks linked to obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, which are increasingly affecting populations in urban and rural areas.
Dr Kiani welcomed the decision to forward the petition to relevant authorities and called for swift examination of the recommendations. He emphasized that timely policy action is necessary to address rising health challenges and to ensure that preventive strategies are effectively implemented at the national level.
Furthermore, he stated that fiscal tools such as taxation can support broader public health objectives. By making unhealthy products less accessible or less attractive financially, policymakers may encourage healthier dietary choices and reduce the overall strain on the healthcare system.
The Finance Ministry and Federal Board of Revenue are now expected to review the proposal in detail. Officials will assess its implications for revenue, consumption patterns, and public health policy before deciding on possible implementation measures in future fiscal planning.