Dhaka, May 14 -- Public health experts on Thursday called on the government to reduce the number of cigarette price tiers, introduce a specific tax system and ensure effective taxation on all tobacco products in the national budget for fiscal year 2026-27 to curb tobacco use and boost revenue.

The demand was raised at a press conference titled "Demand for Taxation and Price Increase on Tobacco Products in the Upcoming FY2026-27 Budget for Public Health Protection," organised by Dhaka Ahsania Mission at Dhaka Reporters Unity.

'New tobacco pricing plan could deter 3.72 lakh youths from smoking, save 1.85 lakh lives'

Speakers at the event said reforming the tobacco tax structure would help reduce smoking prevalence, prevent premature deat...