BY: OUR CORRESPONDENT
MURREE, October 15, 2025: Spokesperson to the President of Pakistan, Murtaza Solangi, has called for a comprehensive ban on tobacco advertising, promotion, and sponsorship (TAPS) and an increase in the size of graphic health warnings (GHWs) on cigarette packs to protect public health.
He was speaking at a two-day consultative session organized by the Society for the Protection of the Rights of the Child (SPARC) on the WHO Global Tobacco Epidemic Report 2025 and best practices for tobacco control.
Mr. Solangi said the WHO report sends a clear message that tobacco continues to kill millions every year. “If we fail to take bold measures such as banning TAPS and enlarging health warnings, we will continue to lose thousands of precious lives,” he warned. He noted that Pakistan has over 27 million tobacco users, causing more than 166,000 deaths annually.
Former MNA Dr. Nisar Ahmed Cheema highlighted the growing appeal of tobacco products among youth, driven by indirect advertising methods such as attractive packaging and event sponsorships. He urged stronger enforcement of large, image-based health warnings and stricter laws to close policy loopholes.
Dr. Khalil Ahmad Dogar, Program Manager at SPARC, said that despite existing regulations, indirect promotional tactics still influence consumers. Citing WHO findings, he said countries with complete TAPS bans have seen significant reductions in tobacco use, particularly among young people.
Faisal Zahid Malik, Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of Pakistan Observer, stressed the media’s responsibility in promoting public health. “We must prioritize people’s health over profit and ensure effective implementation of tobacco control laws,” he said, calling for united efforts by government, media, civil society, and youth.
The session brought together officials, health experts, journalists, and youth representatives who reviewed Pakistan’s progress on implementing TAPS and GHW regulations. Participants emphasized the need for stronger enforcement and coordinated action to accelerate tobacco control in the country.
