November 17, 2023: The Citizen Health Initiative (CHI) has applauded the unwavering efforts of the government and the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) in their campaign to eliminate illicit cigarettes from the country, with a particular focus on cracking down on retailers. The initiative aims to pave the way for a smoke-free nation.
While acknowledging the commendable progress achieved in restraining retailers, CHI highlights the urgent need to tackle the root cause of the issue—the illegal manufacturers of cigarettes, who are responsible for the widespread proliferation of these illicit products.
“The government’s crackdown on retailers is a step in the right direction, contributing to a decline in the consumption of cigarettes,” stated the CHI spokesman. However, he underscored the importance of maintaining this momentum and extending efforts to target the illegal cigarette market, which has grown rapidly following tax impositions on legal cigarettes, undermining the initial success in reducing cigarette consumption.
Despite the government’s initiatives, the surge in illegal cigarette sales presents a dual challenge by not only diminishing government revenues but also putting a strain on the health budget. The CHI spokesperson advocates for a balanced approach, emphasizing the continued crackdown on both retailers and manufacturers as essential for achieving lasting results.
In a significant move to combat non-duty paid and counterfeit cigarettes, the FBR recently executed 429 raids across the country. This operation resulted in the seizure of approximately 16 million illicit cigarette sticks. This robust action signifies a crucial step towards eliminating the menace of illegal cigarettes and underscores the ongoing commitment to safeguard public health and government revenue.
The CHI commends these efforts as a vital contribution to the overall health and well-being of the nation. The initiative hopes that such proactive measures will pave the way for a substantial reduction in the prevalence of illicit cigarettes, ultimately creating a healthier and more sustainable environment for all citizens.
