Public Health on Top

Although the Finance Minister, in his budget speech, has acknowledged the health damages of tobacco use, there is no reflection of his promises in the budget. Still the lethal products are found in comparative cheaper rate in everywhere. Before the budget, the tobacco companies had met with the NBR and Finance Minister and set the tax rate, and the meetings’ reflection are found on the budget. Notably, to make everything in the right track, the tobacco companies also held post-budget meeting with the Finance Ministry. But it is unknown if there are further interference from the tobacco companies. Recently, the tobacco companies are publicizing to occupy the market with the slogan of winning the budget. Abul khair Tobacco has produced stickers with the words – ‘Your favorite brand Marise is still on its former price’ to run campaign to attract the customers.
Due to the inactive taxation policy years after years, Tobacco Company is earning profits and the public health is deteriorating. Public health is on top. Unless the truth is recognized by the government, public health will not be benefitted.