Pakistan, June 10 -- President Asif Ali Zardari has forwarded a petition calling for higher taxes on ultra-processed foods and beverages to the finance secretary and Federal Board of Revenue chairman for further review. The move brings renewed attention to growing concerns over dietary risks and the rising burden of non-communicable diseases in Pakistan.

The petition was submitted to the President's Secretariat by Pakistan National Heart Association President Dr Masoodur Rehman Kiani. He urged authorities to consider stronger fiscal measures against unhealthy food products, arguing that taxation could play a key role in improving public health outcomes across the country.

According to the proposal, increased taxes on ultra-processed foo...