Expired Smuggled Cigarettes Scandal has surfaced in Pakistan after the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) uncovered alleged illegal repackaging of foreign cigarette brands. The operation took place at a tobacco company in Karachi’s Export Processing Zone.
According to officials, FBR enforcement teams raided M/s Pioneer Tobacco & Trading Company. The raid resulted in the seizure of about 4.5 million foreign cigarette sticks. These included well-known international brands.
Authorities also recovered cigarette filters, packing material, and expired sheesha flavors. Officials suspect these items were used to repackage and relabel old cigarette stock.
Sources said expired or near-expiry cigarettes are often purchased cheaply from international black markets. These products are then brought into Pakistan and prepared for resale.
Experts explain that cigarettes have a limited shelf life. After expiry, tobacco quality declines and may become unsafe for use.
Officials believe Export Processing Zone incentives may have been misused. These incentives allow tax-free imports and exports to support business and investment.
Investigations also revealed links between several tobacco companies connected to the same business group. Meanwhile, one company has obtained a court stay order to stop further raids.
Authorities say illegal cigarette trade causes huge tax losses to Pakistan. Officials have confirmed that enforcement action will continue to stop violations.
