UK Government Eliminates VAT on Period Pants, Promoting Affordability and Sustainability

The “Say Pants To the Tax” campaign, supported by retailers like Marks & Spencer and period pants brand Wuka, successfully influenced the chancellor to abolish the tax in his Autumn Statement. The move aligns with the exemption already in place for tampons and pads since 2021.

While some retailers, such as Tesco, had initially absorbed the VAT cost during the campaign, not all plan to reduce prices further post the tax change. However, this initiative is expected to level the playing field in the market for period products, making them more affordable for women across the UK.

Victoria McKenzie-Gould, Corporate Affairs Director at M&S, believes this legislative change will address cost barriers for nearly 25% of women and make a significant impact on budgets. Period pants, known for their absorbent, washable, and reusable nature, offer an environmentally friendly alternative to single-use products.

Financial Secretary to the Treasury, Nigel Huddleston, emphasizes the importance of providing more affordable options for essential and eco-friendly products. The price range of period underwear varies from £6 to £18 per pair, and they are available in various outlets, including high street fashion chains and supermarkets.

The reduction in VAT aims not only to make period products more economically accessible but also to contribute to the broader effort of combating period poverty. Laura Coryton, founder of Sex Ed Matters, highlights the alarming rise in period poverty in the UK and sees the VAT reduction as a positive step in addressing this issue.

Beyond financial benefits, the move is expected to help destigmatize periods, potentially encouraging more girls to attend school without the fear of inadequate access to period products. Retailers and brands committed to passing on the tax cut in full to customers, reinforcing the positive impact of this regulatory change on affordability and sustainability.