PANAH: Budget Prioritizes Corporate Profits Over Public Health
The Pakistan National Heart Association (PANAH) has issued a strong public statement criticizing the Federal Budget 2025, warning that it prioritizes corporate profits over public health. During a press conference in Islamabad, Secretary General Sanaullah Ghumman expressed deep concern over the lack of taxation on ultra-processed foods, such as sugary beverages and fast food.
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Despite rising health issues linked to diet, the government chose not to introduce any new taxes on unhealthy food products—while continuing to raise taxes on fuel and other sectors.
PANAH Demands 20% Junk Food Tax in Pakistan
PANAH is demanding the introduction of a 20% Federal Excise Duty (FED) on ultra-processed foods. Ghumman stressed that these products are major contributors to obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Pakistan.
“Taxing sugary drinks and junk food is not just a policy decision—it’s a national health necessity,” Ghumman stated.
Health Crisis Escalates Amid Budget Cuts
PANAH also condemned the 16% reduction in Pakistan’s national healthcare budget, calling it a dangerous move at a time when the country faces a surge in lifestyle-related illnesses.
Alarming health statistics:
- One person in Pakistan suffers a heart attack every minute
- Over 1,100 people die daily from diabetes-related complications
- Pakistan now ranks #1 globally in diabetes prevalence
These figures highlight an urgent need for policy-level interventions and increased public health spending, not budget cuts.
Public Health Experts: Time for Bold Policy Decisions
PANAH has called on the government to show leadership by taking on powerful food and beverage lobbies. Ghumman emphasized that a junk food tax could generate significant public revenue while reducing the healthcare burden in the long term.
“Public health must come before corporate profits,” he said. “We need bold decisions—not silence—in the face of a growing national health emergency.”
Read more about PANAH’s advocacy at panah.org.pk
Conclusion: Pakistan Needs a Nutrition-First Budget
With non-communicable diseases on the rise, healthcare experts say Pakistan cannot afford to delay reform. PANAH’s call for a junk food tax offers a practical path toward better health outcomes and aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The 2025 budget could be a turning point—but only if public interest is placed above corporate influence.
