Renowned entrepreneur Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw has stepped forward to denounce the prevalent gender-based pricing discrimination, commonly known as the 'Pink Tax.'
In a video shared on social media platform X, Mazumdar-Shaw highlighted the price disparities between products marketed towards women compared to similar items targeted at men. The Biocon chief urged women to boycott such discriminatory products.
The term 'Pink Tax' refers to the unfair practice of inflating prices on goods marketed to women, despite identical or similar products being available for men at lower prices.
From personal care items like soaps, lotions, and deodorants to everyday essentials like razors, this discriminatory pricing scheme is present in various sectors, increasing gender inequalities in the consumer market.
Mazumdar-Shaw's post, which garnered over 1.58 lakh views within hours of being shared, resonated strongly with social media users who echoed her sentiments. The widespread support underscores a growing recognition of the economic injustices faced by women due to discriminatory pricing practices.
While the 'Pink Tax' is not a government-imposed levy, its impact on women's economic empowerment is profound. Research conducted by the World Economic Forum reveals that gender-based pricing disparities contribute to the economic burden faced by women, who continue to earn less than their male counterparts.