Islamabad (Khyber Mail): Public health advocates and civil society organizations have called on the government to shift its taxation priorities from petrol to ultra-processed products (UPPs) to address Pakistan’s escalating health crisis. At a press conference organized by the Pakistan National Heart Association (PANAH) and coalition partners in Islamabad, experts highlighted the alarming rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and their devastating impact on the nation.
Statistics revealed that over 41% of adults in Pakistan are either obese or overweight, with more than 36 million people living with diabetes in 2024—up from just 6.3 million in 2011. An additional 10 million people are pre-diabetic, and without urgent interventions, diabetes cases are expected to surge to 62 million by 2045.
Speaking at the event, PANAH General Secretary Sana Ullah Ghumman emphasized the urgency of government action. “The alarming rate of NCDs is turning into a pandemic in Pakistan,” he said. “Taxing ultra-processed foods is a triple win for the government—it will generate much-needed revenue, reduce the disease burden, and boost productivity.”
Ultra-processed products, laden with sugar, artificial additives, and unhealthy fats, are major contributors to obesity, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses. Advocates argued that taxing these products would encourage healthier consumption habits, reduce the strain on public health systems, and promote long-term sustainability by lowering the carbon footprint associated with food production.
Critics of the government’s recent petrol tax hike highlighted its ripple effects, including increased inflation and rising costs for essential medicines and household goods. “The government must prioritize public health over corporate interests,” said Ghumman, urging policymakers to impose higher taxes on UPPs instead of petrol.
The press conference, attended by representatives from PANAH, Heart Files, Pakistan Youth Change Advocates (PYCA), Center for Peace and Development Initiatives (CPDI), Pakistan Medical Association (PMA), and other organizations, called for immediate policy reforms.
Participants stressed that redirecting taxation toward ultra-processed foods could simultaneously alleviate health burdens and secure economic benefits for the nation. “It’s time for the government to take a bold step and prioritize the health of its citizens,” said one participant.
The demand is clear: Pakistan must act now to combat its health crisis by discouraging the consumption of unhealthy ultra-processed foods and adopting policies that promote healthier lifestyles for its citizens.