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IOL News
6 days ago
- Health
- IOL News
A Deadly Trade-Off: Tobacco's Toll in Pakistan Echoes Warnings for South Africa
Each year, tobacco use kills approximately 164 000 people in Pakistan, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). In Pakistan's power corridors, a troubling trade-off is quietly unfolding—one where human lives are weighed against financial returns. Tobacco, despite its well-known links to disease and death, remains deeply embedded in the country's economy. Now, as death tolls rise and public hospitals overflow, the government faces a grim dilemma: protect public health or preserve a major source of national revenue. Each year, tobacco use kills approximately 164 000 people in Pakistan, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). These aren't just statistics — they represent parents, workers, and teenagers lost to lung cancer, heart disease, and stroke. Tobacco-related illnesses have become a major part of the country's non-communicable disease burden, which is steadily increasing. Yet, tobacco products remain widely accessible, lightly regulated, and marketed in subtle ways—especially to the youth. While cigarette packs carry graphic health warnings and anti-smoking campaigns exist, these efforts are undermined by lax enforcement and powerful industry influence. This paradox—acknowledging tobacco's harms while benefiting from its profits — is not unique to Pakistan. The situation offers a cautionary tale for South Africa, where similar tensions exist. In 2023–24, Pakistan's tobacco industry contributed over 200 billion Pakistani rupees (roughly R13.5 billion) in taxes, according to the Federal Board of Revenue. This includes excise duties and sales tax, mostly from cigarettes. For an economy under pressure — facing budget deficits and IMF obligations — this income is difficult to ignore. However, this revenue comes at a steep cost. A 2021 study by the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (PIDE) found that tobacco-related illness and death cost the economy over 615 billion rupees annually — about R41 billion. In other words, for every rand (or rupee) gained from tobacco, three are lost managing its consequences. This economic burden is familiar to South Africans. Our tobacco-related healthcare costs are estimated in the billions annually, with thousands of deaths attributed to smoking. As in Pakistan, the presence of a strong tobacco lobby and a thriving illicit cigarette trade complicates reform. In both countries, lawmakers from tobacco-growing regions are reluctant to take action, often citing job losses and the risk of fuelling illegal trade. In Pakistan, illicit cigarettes are thought to make up over 30% of the market, though experts dispute the figure. South Africa, too, has struggled to control the spread of untaxed, unregulated cigarettes, especially during and after COVID-19 lockdowns. Pakistan's youth smoking rate is another red flag. Around 10% of schoolchildren aged 13–15 use tobacco products. Public health officials say this reflects a failure in education and regulation. The glamorisation of smoking, peer pressure, and the availability of single cigarettes all play a role, factors that South African schools and communities also grapple with. Meanwhile, newer nicotine products like e-cigarettes and heated tobacco devices are complicating efforts further. Marketed as 'safer' alternatives, these products are growing in popularity among urban youth in both Pakistan and South Africa. But experts warn that their long-term health effects remain uncertain and that they often serve as a gateway to traditional smoking. For now, Pakistan's healthcare system is straining under the pressure. Overcrowded oncology wards and under-resourced rural clinics are unable to cope with the long-term fallout of tobacco use. South Africa's public health system, already stretched by TB, HIV, and NCDs, could face a similar crisis if tobacco regulation remains inconsistent. Despite repeated calls from health advocates, bold political leadership on tobacco control remains absent in Pakistan. Public health often takes a backseat to short-term economic concerns — a reality that rings true in South Africa as well. As both nations face growing, youthful populations and rising urbanisation, the choices made today will determine future health outcomes. Pakistan's silent struggle with tobacco offers a clear warning: delaying action comes at a deadly price.
The South African
7 days ago
- Sport
- The South African
Kaizer Chiefs: Top FIVE most valuable players and their staggering price tags
Kaizer Chiefs is one of the richest football clubs in South Africa. So, it comes as no suprise that Amakhosi players are amongst the most expensive in the Transfer market. Kaizer Chiefs are well-known for their incredible buying power. In fact, at one point Amakhosi had the three highest-paid players in the PSL – Keagan Dolly, Samir Nurkovic and Khama Billiat – at the same time. Now, despite continuous failed campaigns in the Betway Premiership, the Soweto giants still boast some of the most valuable players in the entire PSL. * Please note that all of these values are based off of the reported latest player values on Transfermarkt. Yusuf Maart (Amakhosi Captain) – (R20.7 MILLION) Chiefs captain Maart is valued at approximately, $1 million. This equates to almost R21 million (R20.7 million). Thus, making him the most highly valued player in the transfer market. 2. Given Msimango/Reeve Frosler – R18.7 MILLION Interestingly, two under-utilised defenders share the honour of being Amakhosi's second-highest most valuable players. Both centre back, Msimango and right back, Frosler have an estimated market value of $900 000 which equotes to R18.65 million (roughly R18.7 million). 3. Ashley Du Preez – R17.6 MILLION The speedy attacker has blown hot and cold since joining Chiefs from Stellies a few seasons ago. However, whilst his transfer market evaluation has dipped to $850 000 (R17.6 millin), he is still one of the most valuable players at Amakhosi. Moreover, he is also one of the most highly valued players in the PSL today. 4. Mduduzi Shabalala – R14.5 MILLION Mdu Shabalala is one of the fastest-rising young talents in the PSL. A couple of seasons ago he was playing for Amakhosi's DDC side. Now, he is a regular starter in the Chiefs senior side and one of the most valuable players in the PSL. 'Mdu' is valued at $700 000 which is approximately R14.5 million. 5. Rushwin Dortley/Bradley Cross – R13.5 MILLION Both youngsters were recently signed when Nasreddine Nabi took over the reins at Chiefs. So, whilst neither transfer fee was disclosed, we know both players are worth big money. Furthermore, both Dortley and Cross are valued at $R650 000. Meaning, both men have an estimated transfermarkt value of R13.47 million (R13.5 million). Blom was one of the most valuable players before he returned to the United Stated. His market value currently sits at $900 000 (R18.7 million). Thus, mmaking him one of the most valuable players to leave Chiefs in recent seasons. Brutal defender, Inacio Miguel has an estimated market evaluation that sees him worth $600 000 (R12.43 million). Meaning, if any of the players on this list depart from Naturena, Miguel will become one of the top five most valuable players left at Chiefs. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
The South African
7 days ago
- Sport
- The South African
Kaizer Chiefs: Top FIVE most valuable players and their staggering pricetags
Kaizer Chiefs is one of the richest football clubs in South Africa. So, it comes as no suprise that Amakhosi players are amongst the most expensive in the Transfer market. Kaizer Chiefs are well-known for their incredible buying power. In fact, at one point Amakhosi had the three highest-paid players in the PSL – Keagan Dolly, Samir Nurkovic and Khama Billiat – at the same time. Now, despite continuous failed campaigns in the Betway Premiership, the Soweto giants still boast some of the most valuable players in the entire PSL. * Please note that all of these values are based off of the reported latest player values on Transfermarkt. Yusuf Maart (Amakhosi Captain) – (R20.7 MILLION) Chiefs captain Maart is valued at approximately, $1 million. This equates to almost R21 million (R20.7 million). Thus, making him the most highly valued player in the transfer market. 2. Given Msimango/Reeve Frosler – R18.7 MILLION Interestingly, two under-utilised defenders share the honour of being Amakhosi's second-highest most valuable players. Both centre back, Msimango and right back, Frosler have an estimated market value of $900 000 which equotes to R18.65 million (roughly R18.7 million). 3. Ashley Du Preez – R17.6 MILLION The speedy attacker has blown hot and cold since joining Chiefs from Stellies a few seasons ago. However, whilst his transfer market evaluation has dipped to $850 000 (R17.6 millin), he is still one of the most valuable players at Amakhosi. Moreover, he is also one of the most highly valued players in the PSL today. 4. Mduduzi Shabalala – R14.5 MILLION Mdu Shabalala is one of the fastest-rising young talents in the PSL. A couple of seasons ago he was playing for Amakhosi's DDC side. Now, he is a regular starter in the Chiefs senior side and one of the most valuable players in the PSL. 'Mdu' is valued at $700 000 which is approximately R14.5 million. 5. Rushwin Dortley/Bradley Cross – R13.5 MILLION Both youngsters were recently signed when Nasreddine Nabi took over the reins at Chiefs. So, whilst neither transfer fee was disclosed, we know both players are worth big money. Furthermore, both Dortley and Cross are valued at $R650 000. Meaning, both men have an estimated transfermarkt value of R13.47 million (R13.5 million). Blom was one of the most valuable players before he returned to the United Stated. His market value currently sits at $900 000 (R18.7 million). Thus, mmaking him one of the most valuable players to leave Chiefs in recent seasons. Brutal defender, Inacio Miguel has an estimated market evaluation that sees him worth $600 000 (R12.43 million). Meaning, if any of the players on this list depart from Naturena, Miguel will become one of the top five most valuable players left at Chiefs. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
IOL News
20-05-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Expert insights on Enoch Godongwana's upcoming budget speech in South Africa
Experts have mixed feelings as Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana prepares to deliver his third expected budget speech on Wednesday. Image: Pixabay As South Africa braces for Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana's third budget speech on Wednesday, a wave of expert opinions reveals a landscape marked by both cautious optimism and pronounced concerns. With rising economic pressures and a growing budget deficit, Godongwana faces the complex task of generating revenue without curbing growth. Old Mutual chief economist Johann Els highlighted the anticipated revenue shortfall following the scrapping of a planned Value Added Tax (VAT) increase. Els estimated a loss of around R13.5 billion for the current year, with an alarming three-year total that could reach approximately R75bn. 'This will have to be made up for; Treasury will have to revise their gross domestic product (GDP) growth forecast downwards; they have it at 1.9% for 2025, but most forecasts have GDP around 1.5%,' he said. The ramifications of this budget speech extend beyond just lost tax revenue. Els said the budget speech was more than just a VAT increase that needed to be made up for. 'It is crucial that the government sticks to the deficit targets that they set in the first two budgets. Investors and rating agencies would not like it if the government tries to make up for the loss in revenue by borrowing more. It is crucial that they stick to the budget deficit target of 4.6% for this year, easing lower over the next few years to -3.5%. The primary surplus target of +0.9% rising to +2% over the next three years should be maintained. Crucially, the debt-to-GDP ratio peaking this year at 76.2% should be maintained. I think there needs to be significant expenditure cuts in this budget.' Professor Raymond Parsons, an economist at the North-West University (NWU) Business School, choed the sentiment that this budget could provide a much-needed opportunity. 'The third budget stands a good chance of being a successful one. It should benefit from the robust debate around the VAT controversy, which identified new options on both the spending and revenue of the budget to better 'balance the books'. The credibility of the budget will depend upon its ability to do two key things,' he said. Parsons added that the government needed to stick close to its original goal of a debt-to-GDP ratio of 76.2%, and second, strongly reflect what is now needed to meet the Government of National Unity's commitment to a 3% job-rich GDP growth target in the medium term. Neil Roets, CEO of Debt Rescue, welcome the confirmation that VAT will remain at 15%, sparing families from yet another blow, but said they remained concerned about the possibility of proposed increases in fuel levies and sin taxes. Roets said that equally troubling was the persistent budget deficit. 'The possibility of turning to 'stealth' measures such as bracket creep or frozen medical aid credits only shifts the burden onto consumers. We urge Minister Godongwana to prioritise spending efficiency rather than add to household strain,' he said. Benay Sager, Executive Head of DebtBusters, said that their expectation was spending cuts across the different departments as there just was not enough money to go around. 'We expect tax brackets to remain as they have been, and as a result of bracket creep, there will be more money coming in. We also expect additional taxes to be announced on things like, potentially, crypto and crypto trading and so on,' he said. Casey Sprake, economist at Anchor Capital, said that the central challenge of the third iteration of Budget 2025 liesd in how effectively the government responded to several mounting fiscal pressures. Sprake added that to offset the negative fiscal impacts, the government is likely to dial back some of the new spending introduced in the previous two Budget 2025 updates. 'In particular, increased allocations for frontline services are expected to be trimmed. However, Treasury is likely to protect infrastructure spending, positioning it as central to efforts aimed at boosting long-term economic growth,' Sprake said. Weekend Argus
IOL News
19-05-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Experts weigh in as South Africa prepares for critical budget speech 3. 0
Experts have mixed feelings as Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana prepares to deliver his third expected budget speech on Wednesday. Image: Pixabay As South Africa braces for Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana's third budget speech on Wednesday, a wave of expert opinions reveals a landscape marked by both cautious optimism and pronounced concerns. With rising economic pressures and a growing budget deficit, Godongwana faces the complex task of generating revenue without curbing growth. Old Mutual chief economist Johann Els highlighted the anticipated revenue shortfall following the scrapping of a planned Value Added Tax (VAT) increase. Els estimated a loss of around R13.5 billion for the current year, with an alarming three-year total that could reach approximately R75bn. 'This will have to be made up for; Treasury will have to revise their gross domestic product (GDP) growth forecast downwards; they have it at 1.9% for 2025, but most forecasts have GDP around 1.5%,' he said. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ The ramifications of this budget speech extend beyond just lost tax revenue. Els said the budget speech was more than just a VAT increase that needed to be made up for. 'It is crucial that the government sticks to the deficit targets that they set in the first two budgets. Investors and rating agencies would not like it if the government tries to make up for the loss in revenue by borrowing more. It is crucial that they stick to the budget deficit target of 4.6% for this year, easing lower over the next few years to -3.5%. The primary surplus target of +0.9% rising to +2% over the next three years should be maintained. Crucially, the debt-to-GDP ratio peaking this year at 76.2% should be maintained. I think there needs to be significant expenditure cuts in this budget.' Professor Raymond Parsons, an economist at the North-West University (NWU) Business School, choed the sentiment that this budget could provide a much-needed opportunity. 'The third budget stands a good chance of being a successful one. It should benefit from the robust debate around the VAT controversy, which identified new options on both the spending and revenue of the budget to better 'balance the books'. The credibility of the budget will depend upon its ability to do two key things,' he said. Parsons added that the government needed to stick close to its original goal of a debt-to-GDP ratio of 76.2%, and second, strongly reflect what is now needed to meet the Government of National Unity's commitment to a 3% job-rich GDP growth target in the medium term. Neil Roets, CEO of Debt Rescue, welcome the confirmation that VAT will remain at 15%, sparing families from yet another blow, but said they remained concerned about the possibility of proposed increases in fuel levies and sin taxes. Roets said that equally troubling was the persistent budget deficit. 'The possibility of turning to 'stealth' measures such as bracket creep or frozen medical aid credits only shifts the burden onto consumers. We urge Minister Godongwana to prioritise spending efficiency rather than add to household strain,' he said. Benay Sager, Executive Head of DebtBusters, said that their expectation was spending cuts across the different departments as there just was not enough money to go around. 'We expect tax brackets to remain as they have been, and as a result of bracket creep, there will be more money coming in. We also expect additional taxes to be announced on things like, potentially, crypto and crypto trading and so on,' he said. Casey Sprake, economist at Anchor Capital, said that the central challenge of the third iteration of Budget 2025 liesd in how effectively the government responded to several mounting fiscal pressures. Sprake added that to offset the negative fiscal impacts, the government is likely to dial back some of the new spending introduced in the previous two Budget 2025 updates. 'In particular, increased allocations for frontline services are expected to be trimmed. However, Treasury is likely to protect infrastructure spending, positioning it as central to efforts aimed at boosting long-term economic growth,' Sprake said. Visit:
