In Pakistan, milk is more than just a dietary staple—it’s a vital source of nutrition for millions, especially children and the elderly. However, soaring prices and heavy taxation have turned this essential commodity into a luxury many can no longer afford. The government’s fiscal policies, import restrictions, and supply chain inefficiencies have all contributed to this growing crisis, leaving families struggling to secure basic nutrition.
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Why Is Milk Becoming Unaffordable?
1. Heavy Taxation and Economic Policies: Pakistan’s tax regime has increasingly burdened essential food items, including milk. Despite being a fundamental necessity, milk and dairy products face high sales taxes and regulatory duties. These taxes trickle down to consumers, pushing prices beyond the reach of low- and middle-income households.
2. Inflation and Currency Devaluation: The Pakistani rupee’s depreciation has made imported animal feed, veterinary medicines, and dairy equipment more expensive. Since many dairy farmers rely on these imports, their rising costs directly impact milk production and retail prices. Inflation has further squeezed household budgets, forcing families to cut back on milk consumption.
3. Supply Chain Challenges: Pakistan’s dairy industry suffers from inefficiencies, including poor cold storage, inadequate transportation, and middlemen who inflate prices. Small-scale farmers, who produce a significant portion of the country’s milk, often lack access to fair pricing, while urban consumers pay a premium due to supply chain markups.
4. Declining Local Production: Climate change, water shortages, and rising feed costs have hurt local milk production. Many small dairy farmers are abandoning the trade due to unsustainable profits, leading to reduced supply and higher prices in markets.
The Health Consequences of Unaffordable Milk: Milk is a primary source of calcium, protein, and vitamins for children. When families can’t afford it, malnutrition rates rise. Pakistan already faces alarming levels of stunting and wasting in children—making milk unaffordable only worsens the crisis.
What Can Be Done?
- Tax Reforms: The government should exempt milk and dairy products from excessive taxation to make them more accessible.
- Subsidies for Farmers: Providing subsidies on animal feed and veterinary care could lower production costs and stabilize prices.
- Investment in Dairy Infrastructure: Modernizing supply chains, improving storage, and supporting small farmers could enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
- Public Awareness: Promoting alternative, affordable sources of nutrition (like lentils and local greens) can help mitigate the impact of milk shortages.
Conclusion: Milk should not be a luxury—it’s a necessity. Without urgent policy changes, Pakistan’s nutritional crisis will deepen, affecting millions of vulnerable citizens. The government must prioritize food security by making milk affordable again, ensuring that no child goes without this basic nutritional need.
