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Pakistan's 40% Menstrual Product Tax Faces Legal Challenge

1/15/2026

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Summary

Story summary

In Pakistan, menstrual products are taxed as luxury items, and Bushra Mahnoor, executive director of Mahwari Justice, filed a September 2025 lawsuit to reclassify them as essential goods and remove the 40% tax.
Eliminating the 40% tax would make sanitary items more affordable and reduce stigma and limited access.
Pakistan lacks a national policy on menstrual health.
The journey for change is expected to be long and challenging.

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Story summary

In Pakistan, menstrual products are taxed as luxury items, and Bushra Mahnoor, executive director of Mahwari Justice, filed a September 2025 lawsuit to reclassify them as essential goods and remove the 40% tax.
Eliminating the 40% tax would make sanitary items more affordable and reduce stigma and limited access.
Pakistan lacks a national policy on menstrual health.
The journey for change is expected to be long and challenging.