The Bangladesh Tobacco Control Advocates (BTCA) has alleged that the proposed 2026–27 national budget prioritizes the interests of the tobacco industry over public health protection and tobacco use reduction. In a joint press statement released on Friday, BTCA leaders said the decision to bring nicotine pouches, heated tobacco products, e-cigarettes, and vaping items under the tax framework effectively legitimizes them, posing new health risks.

According to BTCA, the government’s move conflicts with its commitment to a tobacco-free Bangladesh. The group warned that legitimizing new nicotine products could expose millions of youths to addiction and increase future health costs. It also criticized the nominal two-taka price hike for low-tier cigarettes, which account for about 75 percent of sales, calling it ineffective amid high inflation. BTCA further noted that ignoring expert recommendations for a specific excise tax would deprive the government of revenue while boosting tobacco company profits.

However, BTCA welcomed initiatives such as adding QR codes to cigarette tax stamps, introducing a digital track-and-trace system, and tightening oversight of raw material supply chains, urging the government and NBR to revise the budget with public health as the top priority.