By Adnan Hameed TWA ______ In a pivotal event aimed at confronting the critical issue of tobacco control in Pakistan, distinguished organizations and individuals gathered at a policy dialogue organized by the Human Development Foundation (HDF), in collaboration with esteemed partners including SPARC, Aurat Foundation, Chromatic Trust, Social Policy Development Centre (SPDC), and the Indus Hospital and Health Network. Under the theme of "Tobacco Taxation," the policy dialogue served as a platform for policymakers, experts, activists, and stakeholders to engage in comprehensive discussions on combatting the pervasive impact of tobacco consumption in Pakistan. General Manager of Strategy & Design at HDF, Usman Shaukat, highlighted the organization's multifaceted endeavors in tobacco control, emphasizing the imperative of collective action in addressing this public health challenge. Keynote speakers and panelists shared invaluable insights throughout the dialogue, delving into diverse facets of tobacco taxation and control.

Dr. Nelson Azeem, Member of the National Assembly, shed light on the healthcare hurdles arising from tobacco-related illnesses in Pakistan, noting an alarming annual healthcare burden of approximately PKR 615 billion. Azeem underscored the urgent necessity for comprehensive measures to tackle tobacco consumption and its adverse effects on public health and the economy. Principal Economist from the Social Policy and Development Centre (SPDC), Muhammad Sabir accentuated the advantages of heightened tobacco taxation, citing its potential to positively influence both public health and government revenue. Notably, revenue collections from cigarette taxes between July 2023 and January 2024 surpassed PKR 122 billion, with full-year projections exceeding PKR 200 billion. These figures signify a significant upsurge compared to previous fiscal years, highlighting the efficacy of excise tax reforms as a dual strategy for public health enhancement and economic growth. The dialogue further featured presentations by experts such as Maryam Gul Tahir, Director of the Center for Research & Dialogue (CRD), and Shahzad Alam, Technical Advisor on Tobacco Control at the World Health Organization (WHO), who shared compelling insights and research findings on the ramifications of tobacco taxation and illicit trade. Alam's revelations regarding Pakistan's illicit tobacco trade, estimated to encompass 23% of the total cigarette market, underscore the intricate challenges in curtailing tobacco-related issues. A panel discussion on tobacco taxation facilitated an inclusive dialogue among representatives from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations & Coordination, tobacco control activists, and parliamentarians. The panel explored varied strategies and policy interventions to effectively address tobacco consumption through taxation mechanisms. Chief Guest, Shehla Raza, Member of the National Assembly of Pakistan, offered valuable perspectives from a policymaker's standpoint, emphasizing the significance of efficacious tobacco control measures in safeguarding public health and fostering societal well-being. The event culminated with a commitment to sustained collaboration in the fight against tobacco use. The symposium provided a platform for meaningful engagement and collaboration among stakeholders, reaffirming the collective resolve to implement evidence-based strategies for tobacco control in Pakistan.