Centre for Peace and Development Initiatives convened a briefing on October 6 at the Avari Hotel where Members of the Provincial Assembly and key health and food sector stakeholders discussed legislative measures to advance a PHO ban in Pakistan. The session highlighted the urgent need to eliminate industrially produced trans fats, identified as a major driver of cardiovascular and other non-communicable diseases across the country.
Participants examined the legislative pathway required to implement a complete PHO ban and stressed the importance of aligning provincial regulatory frameworks with national targets. Speakers emphasised how a clear legal route and robust enforcement mechanisms are essential to make the PHO ban effective and sustainable for manufacturers, retailers and consumers.
Provincial assemblies were singled out for their critical role in supporting implementation of the 2% trans fat limit, with parliamentarians underlining the need for coordinated oversight and monitoring. Delegates called for interdepartmental coordination between health, food safety and regulatory bodies to ensure compliance and to protect public health.
Attendees agreed on collaborative approaches to strengthen food safety systems and to prioritise heart health through policy action. The briefing reinforced a shared commitment among lawmakers and stakeholders to move forward with the PHO ban as a key public health measure for Pakistan.
