Pakistan drops ‘period tax’ – a victory for women’s rights

A long-fought battle for menstrual equity in Pakistan has reached a pivotal moment: the government has officially abolished the sales tax on sanitary products, a move hailed as a landmark victory by activists and international organizations.

A stain on dignity finally lifted

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb announced the sweeping change, framing sanitary towels and related items as ‘daily necessities indispensable for women’s health, dignity, and full participation in social activities.’ The decision effectively removes both the 18% sales tax levied on locally produced goods and the additional 25% customs duty applied to imports – a dual burden that had effectively priced period products out of reach for many.

For years, young campaigners – notably Mahnoor Omer and Ahsan Jehangir Khan – have waged a relentless legal and social media campaign, arguing that these taxes constituted a ‘pink tax’ – a discriminatory tax disproportionately affecting women. Their efforts, fueled by impassioned advocacy and a viral petition, proved undeniably successful.

The unseen cost of inequality

The reality on the ground is stark. Research from UNICEF reveals that only a minority of Pakistani women can afford commercial period products. Instead, the vast majority rely on makeshift solutions – cloth rags, repurposed fabric, or even materials like cow dung – methods that carry significant health risks, including infection and reproductive complications. This isn’t merely a matter of inconvenience; it’s a profound barrier to education and economic opportunity.

“Menstrual health is a matter of health, dignity and equality – not a luxury,” stated UN Women. The removal of this tax is a welcome step, promising to allow women to remain in the workforce and girls to remain in school, disrupting cycles of poverty.

Beyond the tax: a broader struggle

But Omer’s perspective remains grounded. ‘The fight is definitely not over,’ she asserted. ‘We will continue to push for the removal of all additional charges on period products.’ Mawahiri Justice’s executive director, Bushra Mahnoor, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that true menstrual justice extends far beyond simply eliminating taxes. ‘It also means access to clean water, sanitation facilities, accurate menstrual education and a society free from period stigma.’

Contraceptives also get relief

Adding to the positive developments, Aurangzeb also announced the abolition of the 18% sales tax on contraceptives, citing ‘alarming’ population growth as a key driver. Pakistan currently ranks as the fifth-largest country in the world by population, and the government prioritizes family planning. This move represents a crucial step in addressing broader demographic challenges.

The elimination of the ‘period tax’ is undoubtedly a significant advance. However, it’s a single brick in a much larger wall – a wall built by systemic inequality and societal stigma. It’s a moment of cautious optimism, but one that demands sustained vigilance and a continued commitment to ensuring that women and girls in Pakistan have access to the resources they need to thrive.