World No Tobacco Day: Khyber Tobacco Company’s flagrant violations of cigarette advertising laws

ISLAMABAD: On the one hand, World No Tobacco Day is being celebrated in Pakistan like the rest of the world, on the other hand, allegations of alleged violations of laws are being made against some local companies involved in the manufacture and sale of tobacco products in the country.

According to sources, Khyber Tobacco Company is openly violating the country’s laws regarding the advertising and marketing of tobacco products. Sources say that Khyber Tobacco Company has been involved in illegal advertising of its cigarette brands for many years, although such advertising activities are considered illegal under the Prohibition of Smoking and Protection of Health of Non-Smoking Persons Ordinance 2002.

According to sources, under the rules and regulations of the Ministry of National Health, it is also prohibited to attract consumers through cash rewards, cash prizes, gifts and various advertising campaigns to increase the sale of tobacco products, however, Khyber Tobacco Company is allegedly violating these regulations and conducting an illegal advertising campaign.

Sources claim that the company is conducting illegal advertising to attract the younger generation to smoke, which is affecting the national anti-smoking policy and public health objectives.

According to sources, despite the alleged violations of laws by the company, no action has ever been taken by the relevant government agencies. Some quarters allege that due to political influence, regulatory agencies have been avoiding strict action against Khyber Tobacco Company.

On the other hand, details of alleged tax evasion worth billions of rupees by Khyber Tobacco Company have also been coming to light. According to sources, the FBR has taken several actions against the Khyber Tobacco Company in the past. Sources further said that during some operations, raw materials worth billions of rupees associated with the company have also been seized. According to sources, the Khyber Tobacco Company is said to be affiliated with the Samsons Group.
Health experts say that on the occasion of World No Tobacco Day, it is necessary to ensure uniform and non-discriminatory implementation of the laws on the advertising, sale and taxation of tobacco products so that the younger generation can be protected from the harms of smoking and activities that harm the national exchequer can be curbed.