Pressure from tobacco industry is delaying vital law in Pakistan, say activists

A tobacco control coalition has issued a high court petition to prevent the Pakistan Ministry of National Health Services, Regulation and Coordination, from withdrawing promised legislation to reduce tobacco use.

The new law—which was due to come into force on 31 July, after a delay from 30 March1—requires 85% of tobacco packaging to be covered with graphic photos of the health consequences of smoking. Now, after …