Mohammad Ihtesham Hassan

Bangladesh’s tobacco tax policy has long been framed around two objectives: reducing tobacco consumption and mobilising revenue.

Bangladesh had the opportunity to set a good example by banning the production and sale of e-cigarettes through the Smoking and Tobacco Products Use (Control) (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025.

Targeting young children to gain future smokers is a longstanding tactic of tobacco producers globally.

Bangladesh has a complex tax policy system for tobacco products.

One of the major problems in the current healthcare system is the lack of an effective referral system and inadequate gatekeeping at tertiary care facilities. Barring emergency care and referrals from lower-tier health facilities, patients should not visit hospitals as they are meant to provide tertiary-level care

The government must not feel entitled or disassociate itself from the people by making unilateral decisions

Bangladesh aims to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030. This means that all citizens of the country would have access to quality healthcare and financial protection.

Aalo clinics are designed to provide comprehensive primary healthcare services.