The recent imposition of an 18% General Sales Tax (GST) on a wide range of medicines has left patients reeling from significantly increased prices.
This unexpected hike has forced many to drastically reduce their medication purchases, often buying just enough for a day or two instead of stocking up for longer periods.
Pharmacy owners in Lahore reported a sharp rise in the prices of essential products like skin treatments, multivitamins, calcium supplements, milk powder, sugar strips, and herbal remedies due to the new GST. Previously, patients would purchase larger quantities of these medicines, but the recent price increase has compelled them to adjust their purchasing habits.
The Drug Lawyers Forum’s President, Noor Mehr, strongly criticized the government’s decision to impose GST on herbal, homeopathic medicines, vitamins, and food supplements. He labeled this move unfair and urged the government to reconsider its decision. Mehr argued that under the Drug Act, medicines should be exempt from taxation.
As the burden of higher medication costs continues to weigh heavily on patients, many are calling for the government to take immediate action to alleviate this financial strain.