Govt approval for nicotine pouch factory draws flak
Health activists criticize the government's approval for a Philip Morris nicotine pouch factory, citing public health concerns.Summary
Health rights activists have strongly criticized the Bangladesh government's approval for Philip Morris Bangladesh Limited to establish a nicotine pouch manufacturing factory in the Meghna Industrial Economic Zone. Critics argue this decision contradicts public health goals and existing tobacco control efforts, especially since the National Tobacco Control Cell was not consulted, and nicotine itself is deemed injurious to health. The Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA) justified the $5.82 million project by stating it would produce 'tobacco-free' and environment-friendly products, creating 63 jobs. However, anti-tobacco campaigners contend the approval violates directives from the Chief Adviser’s Office, which previously prohibited factories for e-cigarettes and similar products, and the Commerce Ministry's ban on importing ENDS products. Organizations like PROGGA demanded the immediate revocation of the approval, noting that the draft amendment to the Tobacco Control Act includes a complete ban on manufacturing and selling nicotine pouches.
(Source：New Age BD)
