Next PPP/C gov’t to remove taxes on sanitary products

In a landmark move to advance gender equality and improve menstrual health, President Dr. Irfaan Ali announced on Sunday night the removal of all taxes on sanitary products for women.

President Ali made the announcement at the PPP/C re-election rally in Bath Settlement, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice), where he noted that the measure has been included in the PPP/C manifesto for the 2025 General and Regional Elections.

“We have decided in our manifesto that we are going to remove all taxes on sanitary supplies and other basic supplies for women’s health. We are investing in our women, in our sisters, mothers, grandmothers,” the President said, adding that “We are investing because we believe in you.”

The move, hailed as a progressive step towards ending period poverty in Guyana, aligns with the advocacy of First Lady Arya Ali through her Menstrual Hygiene Initiative.

Launched in 2021, the First Lady’s flagship project seeks to ensure that every woman and girl has access to sanitary products. Already, more than 30,000 school-aged girls from across the country benefit annually from the free distribution of pads and other menstrual supplies.

President Ali, in making the announcement, said the removal of taxes would help ease the financial burden on women and girls, while also addressing a social challenge.

The President spoke of the need to incentivise and build stronger families, which he said support stronger communities.

The First Lady welcomed the announcement on Sunday, noting that it complements the objectives of her initiative and underscores the government’s commitment to creating a more equitable society.

“This is not just a win for women and girls, but a win for our country. This new measure ensures affordability and equality for all women and girls in Guyana, even as we seek to expand coverage of free pads to women and girls who cannot afford them,” the First Lady said.

The removal of taxes on sanitary products is expected to take effect in the next budget.

According to the United Nations (UN), more than 500 million women and girls globally lack access to basic menstrual products, hygiene education, and sanitation facilities, leading to period poverty.