Explained: What is Pink Tax?

The Pink Tax refers to the extra cost women may pay for products and services marketed specifically to them, even when similar options for men cost less.

Imagine shopping with your brother or a male friend. You both pick up two razors that look almost identical and work the same way. The only difference is the colour—one is black and the other is pink. But the pink razor costs more. This is an example of what people call the Pink Tax.

The Pink Tax is not a government tax. It refers to the extra amount women may pay for products or services marketed specifically to them, even when similar men's products cost less. The difference can sometimes come down to colour, packaging or advertising.

This can happen with everyday products such as razors, moisturisers, shampoos, conditioners and deodorants. Similar price differences can also appear in clothing, accessories, beauty services and other products marketed towards women.

Healthcare is another area where women can face higher costs, although some expenses are for healthcare needs specific to women, such as gynaecology, menstrual care, pregnancy and fertility treatment. Some reports have also found price differences in similar health check-up packages.

One small price difference may not seem significant. But when women pay extra across many purchases and services over many years, the total can become substantial. This is why the Pink Tax has become an important topic in discussions about gender and consumer pricing.

 

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