Leading healthcare experts have called on the Pakistani government to launch a robust public awareness campaign and implement a tax on ultra-processed and sugary foods to combat the escalating obesity crisis, which is draining billions from the economy.

At a conference titled “Unordinary Partnerships to Shape a Healthier Tomorrow” organized by Novo Nordisk Pakistan, experts underscored the urgent need to tackle obesity and related non-communicable diseases through fiscal policy and education.

They pointed out that sugary drinks and high-salt, high-fat junk foods are major contributors to diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, and premature deaths. Experts highlighted that obesity alone costs Pakistan up to USD 2.6 billion annually and severely undermines workplace productivity and national health infrastructure.

Speakers from health advocacy groups emphasized that countries that have implemented taxes on sugar and junk food have seen declines in sugar consumption and related illnesses. These policies not only discourage unhealthy diets but also generate revenue that can be reinvested in public health programs, such as subsidizing healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, and legumes.

The Danish Ambassador to Pakistan emphasized cross-sector collaboration, noting that global private-public partnerships are essential in mobilizing effective health strategies.

Experts urged the federal and finance ministries to take immediate action by:

  • Imposing an excise duty of at least 20% on sugary drinks and ultra-processed junk food
  • Using tax revenue to fund health promotion initiatives and healthy food subsidies
  • Launching nationwide educational campaigns on diet, nutrition, and exercise

They stressed that without policy intervention and public awareness, obesity and related diseases will continue to spiral, taxing both individuals and the national economy.