PINK TAX

Current Context: While no specific laws exist in India against the Pink Tax, the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) has ruled that companies must avoid gender-based price discrimination.

ABOUT PINK TAX

• Not a government tax — refers to extra cost charged for women’s products compared to similar men’s products.
• Seen in toys, haircuts, dry cleaning, razors, shampoos, lotions, clothing, salon services
• Originated in California, U.S. (1994) after studies showed:
  • Women’s personal care products cost 13% more,
  • Women’s clothing 7–8% costlier than men’s.
• In India:
  • No legal prohibition
  • Prices based on market demand
  • Studies show clear price gaps between male and female versions