A Study to Evaluate the Compliance to Packaging Laws in Pakistan by Local and International Tobacco Industries

Abstract

Abstract Introduction – Tobacco control laws are one of the most effective means aimed to combat the widespread use of tobacco. Pakistan has come a long way in getting a grip on this pandemic, however much is yet to be done. With the poor implementation of laws, tobacco companies are able to capitalize on this to boost the sale of their products among the population. Methods – A cross-sectional study was done in which data regarding tobacco packaging was collected from various shops that deal with the sale of cigarettes. This data was then compiled and compared with tobacco control laws to determine the compliance of brands with local packaging laws. Results – A total of 100 brands were collected and analyzed, out of which 55 were local and 45 were manufactured internationally. From the entire sample, only 28% of the brands were following every protocol laid down by the Ministry of Health. Conclusion – This study was able to portray poor adherence to tobacco packaging laws of various tobacco companies operating in Pakistan. Majority of the brands were seen to be lacking in at least one component of the law, which shows poor implementation and enforcement of policies. There is a dire need for Pakistan to promote more effective means of tobacco control through the implementation of strict guidelines.