Bangladesh’s three biggest tobacco firms — British American Tobacco, Philip Morris, and JT International — issued a rare joint statement criticizing the government’s plan to fast-track amendments to the Tobacco Control Act without broad stakeholder consultation. The companies said several provisions in the draft ordinance lack an evidence base and would have “far-reaching, negative consequences” for the economy, tax revenue, foreign investment and the millions of people who depend on the industry.

They warned that proposed ingredient bans could halt cigarette production, while new retail licensing rules might disrupt sales for about 1.5 million small retailers and threaten the livelihoods of roughly 150,000 tobacco farmers. The firms also cautioned that banning smokeless nicotine and tobacco products would remove alternatives for adult consumers and likely expand an already growing illicit market, citing experiences in India and Australia.

Industry leaders urged the government to re-engage manufacturers, farmers, retailers and other affected groups, noting that reforms in 2005 worked because they emerged from inclusive dialogue. With tobacco tax revenue growth slowing and the sector supporting an estimated 4.4 million livelihoods, the companies called for a “balanced and comprehensive solution” to avoid unintended economic and public-health setbacks.

This article was adapted from an original report published on tobaccoreporter.com. All rights belong to the original publisher.