Pakistan's federal government has abolished the sales tax on sanitary products in the 2026-27 federal budget [1], [2].
The move addresses "period poverty" and aims to increase the accessibility of menstrual hygiene products for women and girls across the country [3], [4].
Previously, the government applied an 18% sales tax to these essential hygiene items [1]. This levy, often referred to as the "period tax" or "pink tax," created a financial barrier for low-income individuals seeking basic healthcare products [3], [4].
The policy change follows a landmark legal challenge led by two young lawyers who campaigned for menstrual health equity [3], [4]. The activists said that taxing these products was discriminatory and hindered the fundamental right to health and dignity [3].
By removing the tax in the 2026-27 budget [1], [2], the government has responded to the advocacy for gender-based economic relief. The measure is intended to reduce the cost of sanitary products, which is expected to provide significant relief to millions of women [3], [4].
Menstrual health equity remains a focal point for activists in the region. The legal victory is seen as a precedent for future challenges against taxes on essential health services [3], [4].
“Pakistan's federal government has abolished the sales tax on sanitary products.”
The removal of the period tax reflects a growing global trend toward recognizing menstrual hygiene as a public health necessity rather than a luxury. By eliminating the 18% levy, Pakistan is aligning its fiscal policy with human rights frameworks that view menstrual health as essential to gender equality and education, as the cost of products often forces girls to miss school.
