Women in Karachi have expressed concern over anticipated price hikes for essential makeup items due to increased taxes proposed in the FY2024 budget.
Items such as eyeliner, blush, face powder, foundation, mascara, lipstick, and nail polish are expected to increase prices. This has worried consumers who depend on these products for daily use.
The budget suggests raising taxes on various beauty products by 5 to 7 per cent, which could increase consumers’ financial strain.
Shopkeepers in the city share these concerns, fearing a drop in sales with the expected price rises. They believe higher prices will reduce consumer affordability and negatively affect sales volume.
One shopkeeper remarked, “If the goods become more expensive, the sales will decrease naturally.”
Calls have been made for the government to rethink the tax increase on cosmetic items, with advocates urging measures to allow easier access to these essential beauty products.
