ISLAMABAD: MAY 15 (DNA):Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, held a meeting with a high-level delegation from Nestlé. During the meeting, the delegation highlighted various issues faced by the industry, particularly focusing on the taxes imposed on infant milk powder.
The Federal Minister assured the delegation that the government’s top priority is to minimize taxes on infant milk powder, ensuring that every citizen has easy access to this essential commodity. He stated that infant milk is directly related to the growth and nourishment of newborns and young children, so it should either be tax-free or subject to minimal taxation. Rana Tanveer Hussain informed the delegation that the Ministry of National Food Security and Research is seriously working on this matter and that positive progress is expected soon.
During the meeting, Rana Tanveer Hussain also cited examples from other countries where infant milk powder is exempt from taxes. He pointed out that in the United Kingdom and Ireland, there is no Value Added Tax (VAT) on infant milk powder. Similarly, in Australia and New Zealand, infant formula is considered a basic nutritional necessity and is therefore exempt from taxes. Referring to the policies of these countries, he emphasized the need for Pakistan to adopt a similar approach so that every family can easily access quality milk for their children.
The Federal Minister urged the Nestlé delegation to maximize the use of local fruits in their products to benefit rural farmers and promote domestic agricultural production. He mentioned that many rural families rely on the production and sale of milk for their livelihood, and the government will make every effort to improve their economic conditions.
Rana Tanveer Hussain further announced that the Ministry of National Food Security and Research would formulate a committee to address this important issue, inviting all stakeholders to participate. Through this consultative process, practical suggestions for reducing taxes on infant milk powder will be thoroughly discussed.
