Pink Tax: Economic impact on women and ways to avoid it

definition of pink tax

Pink tax is not a government tax, but a manipulation of the market. In this, products made for women are sold at a higher price than similar products for men. For example, if a men’s blue razor costs Rs 20, the pink version of the same razor is available for women for Rs 25 or Rs 30. This is just a way to charge more money from women by changing the color and packing. This discrimination applies to clothing, perfumes and even services like haircuts.

History of Pink Tax

This discrimination was first detected in California, USA in 1994. A study there found that women’s beauty products were 13 percent more expensive than men’s. In Britain, the price of facial cream was up to 34 percent higher. To stop this discrimination, the United Nations advised to end it globally in 2017.

Pink tax status in india

There is very little awareness on this topic in India. In 2018, when the government removed the tax on sanitary pads, there was some discussion on this issue. Even today, women are unknowingly spending more than men on skincare and salon services.

Effect of pink tax on women

Pink Tax affects the financial status of women:

Less income and more expenses: Women often earn less than men, yet they have to buy expensive products.

Reduction in savings: Household savings decrease due to unnecessary expenses.

Economic loss: If we add up the lifetime expenses, a woman wastes lakhs of rupees due to this discrimination.

Ways to avoid pink tax

You can save your money by taking some precautions:

Use of men’s products: If the quality of the razor or shampoo is the same, buy the men’s product because it is cheaper.

Compare prices: Before purchasing, check if the same product is available for men at a lower price.

Chat in the Salon: If the haircut is the same, don’t pay more based on gender.

Be aware: Only buy from companies that do not discriminate on price.

Laws and regulations in India

There is no concrete law against pink tax in India. However, consumer courts say that companies should not increase prices on the basis of gender. Your awareness is your biggest defense in this matter.