The federal government has announced the removal of the sales tax on sanitary pads and other menstrual hygiene products as part of the Budget 2026–27, a move aimed at making essential healthcare items more affordable for the public.
Under the new budget measures, the existing 18 percent sales tax on sanitary pads has been abolished. The exemption also extends to other menstrual and reproductive health products, including tampons, condoms, and contraceptive medicines.
Officials say the decision has been taken to improve access to basic hygiene products and reduce the financial burden on women and families. The move has been widely welcomed by health advocates and social welfare groups, who have long called for tax relief on essential sanitary items.
The tax exemption is part of a broader set of public welfare measures introduced in the federal budget. Supporters of the initiative believe it could help increase awareness about menstrual health while making hygiene products more accessible, particularly for low-income households.
While the announcement has been positively received, experts note that the full benefit for consumers will depend on how effectively the reduction in taxes is reflected in retail prices. Manufacturers and retailers are expected to adjust prices once the new budgetary measures are formally implemented.
The decision marks a significant policy shift in Pakistan’s approach to menstrual health and hygiene, with many viewing it as an important step toward promoting public health and improving affordability of essential products.
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