Medical Association urges the government to remove tax on menstrual products

Nepal Health News, Kathmandu — The Nepal Medical Association has urged the government to remove the tax imposed on essential menstrual hygiene products.

In a statement, the Association called on the government to immediately take steps to eliminate the current 13% tax on items such as sanitary pads, menstrual cups, and tampons, and to promote domestic production of these products in order to achieve self-reliance.

The Association criticized the government for its lack of attention to this issue. The statement reads, "Due to the government's inaction on sensitive issues like menstruation and the imposition of taxes on essential products, many women are still unable to use proper hygiene materials, which directly affects their health."

According to the Association, it is the government's responsibility to make menstrual hygiene management accessible and affordable. However, the decision to tax products that are part of women's daily needs is seen as having a negative impact on their health and dignity.