Budget proposal sparks debate over public health risks, regulatory direction
14 June 2026, 00:00 AM
Sukanta Halder
Asifur Rahman
Bangladesh has for the first time formally brought nicotine pouches and heated tobacco products into the national tax framework, with public health experts warning that the move could legitimise a new generation of nicotine products despite growing global concerns over their health risks.In the proposed budget for fiscal year 2026-27, Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury introduced new tariff classifications for nicotine granules and nicotine pouches alongside a 350 percent supplementary duty.
