Pakistan has one of the highest smoking rates globally, with over 25 million tobacco users. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), tobacco-related diseases claim more than 160,000 lives in the country each year. Beyond the devastating health impact, smoking-related illnesses cost Pakistan an estimated USD 3.85 billion annually. Given this enormous burden, exploring reduced-risk alternatives should be a priority.
Meanwhile, regulatory bodies worldwide are acknowledging the role of harm reduction in tobacco control. The recent authorization of Zyn nicotine pouches by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) signals a significant shift. Countries like the U.S. and many European countries are adopting progressive policies to reduce smoking-related harm, yet Pakistan has yet to establish a regulatory framework for nicotine alternatives.
Nicotine pouches such as Zyn and Velo are available in Pakistan, but in the absence of regulatory oversight, their status remains unclear. Unlike in the U.S., where FDA authorization ensures strict quality control, Pakistan lacks a structured approach to evaluating these alternatives. This regulatory gap prevents public health authorities from effectively assessing potential benefits and educating consumers about harm reduction options.
Some European countries provide a compelling case study in harm reduction, with smoking rates plummeting to just 4.5%—largely due to the availability of better nicotine alternatives. The FDA’s authorization of Zyn aligns with this global movement, reinforcing the role of regulated reduced-risk products in public health strategies.
The broader question is whether Pakistan will recognize the potential of nicotine pouches and implement policies to support harm reduction. With rising economic challenges and increasing healthcare costs, establishing clear regulations for nicotine pouches could provide smokers with a better alternative while easing the financial burden on the healthcare system.
The world is moving towards a more pragmatic approach to tobacco control, recognizing the role of harm reduction in reducing smoking-related diseases. The FDA’s decision to authorize Zyn is part of this shift. Now, Pakistan must decide whether it will follow suit or remain behind in addressing one of its most pressing public health challenges.
