Public Health on Top

The Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA) has recently granted Philip Morris permission to establish a factory for producing nicotine pouches—a decision that has drawn strong criticism from public health and tobacco control advocates. In protest, anti-tobacco organizations have launched a series of activities, including press conferences, human chains, published commentaries, and the issuance of legal notice, urging the authorities to revoke the approval. The High Court has already issued a rule asking why the decision should not be declared illegal. Despite this, the company continues to promote and justify itself through media columns and reports portraying nicotine pouches as “less harmful,” seeking to shape public perception in its favor. Such claims sharply contradict the statements of leading global health organizations. The WHO, CDC, and other international bodies have unequivocally warned that nicotine pouches pose serious health risks. Indeed, 34 countries—including Belgium, Russia, France, and Uzbekistan—have either banned these products outright or adopted stringent regulatory measures to curb their use. Bangladesh, too, has signaled its intent to take a firm stance. The draft amendment to the national tobacco control law proposes a complete ban on the production, import, purchase, and sale of nicotine pouches, along with e-cigarettes, vaping devices, ENDS, heated tobacco products, and similar emerging nicotine items.

At this pivotal moment, the path forward is clear. The government must place public health above all else and move swiftly to finalize the draft amendment. The stakes are high, and decisive action is essential to protect the health and well-being of the nation.