FBR has uncovered a suspected multi-billion-rupee tobacco scam in Karachi involving the repackaging of expired and smuggled foreign cigarette brands.
According to officials, the operation allegedly misused Export Processing Zone incentives to carry out illegal activities.
During a raid at M/s Pioneer Tobacco & Trading Company, authorities seized around 4.5 million cigarette sticks.
Among the seized products were well-known international brands owned by Philip Morris International and Pakistan Tobacco Company. Officials believe that expired cigarette stocks were repackaged, relabeled, and prepared for sale in local markets.
Investigators suspect that the company may have taken advantage of export-related facilities while secretly diverting products into Pakistan’s domestic market.
If confirmed, this would be a serious violation of tax and customs regulations. Authorities are examining records and supply chains to determine the full scale of the alleged fraud and identify all those involved.
The crackdown is part of a broader effort to stop tobacco tax evasion and smuggling across the country. The action follows clear instructions from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to strengthen enforcement against illegal tobacco trade and protect government revenue.
Officials stated that strict legal action will be taken against those found responsible. The investigation is ongoing, and further raids and checks may be carried out as authorities work to dismantle networks involved in illegal tobacco operations.
