Beyond the Price Tag: Exploring the Broader Socioeconomic Consequences of Pink Tax on Women’s Financial Well-Being

The pink tax, a phenomenon characterized by gender-based pricing disparities, continues to pervade consumer markets globally, wherein products and services marketed towards women are priced higher than equivalent items targeted at men. This discriminatory practice not only imposes an unfair financial burden on women but also perpetuates harmful gender stereotypes and contributes to broader socioeconomic inequalities. Despite growing awareness of the pink tax, its prevalence and impact remain significant, necessitating further research to address its detrimental effects on women’s financial well-being. The present study explores the broader socioeconomic consequences of the pink tax on women’s financial independence, disposable income, economic burden, and psychological well-being. Through Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) analysis, data collected from a sample of 375 females across various demographics were analyzed to assess the relationships between exposure to the pink tax and its effects on women’s financial outcomes and psychological well-being. The findings highlight a significant association between exposure to the pink tax and increased economic burden, reduced disposable income, lower financial independence, and adverse psychological implications for women. These results underscore the urgent need for policy interventions aimed at eliminating gender-based pricing disparities to promote financial equity and well-being among women. By addressing the systemic inequities perpetuated by the pink tax, policymakers can create a more inclusive and equitable society for all individuals, regardless of gender.