The success of a track & trace system depends on across-the-board implementation and effective enforcement, Dr. Musadik Masood Malik the State Minister of Petroleum Division said while speaking at the launch of a research report by Oxford Economics UK. The report is based on the positive economic impact of PTC on Pakistan’s economy.
Pakistan Tobacco Company Limited (PTC), celebrated its 75th year of operating in Pakistan. PTC hosted an event to launch a report developed by Oxford Economics. The report celebrated PTC’s positive association with Pakistan since its inception. It also recognizes PTC’s contribution to the country’s GDP, taxation, employment, foreign investment, and corporate social responsibility. Dr. Musadik Masood Malik the State Minister of Petroleum Division graced the event as the Chief Guest. The top management from PTC and its parent company BAT, including the Group Head of International Trade & Fiscal Affairs for BAT- Mr. Donato DelVecchio, and key industry stakeholders and media professionals attended the event.
While speaking at the occasion State Minister Musadik Masood Malik acknowledged the economic and social contributions made by the company in the last 75 years. He stated that PTC had contributed more than Rs. 450 billion in FED & GST revenue in the last 5 years to the country’s economy. He recognized the threat of the illicit sector and acknowledged that the success of a track & trace system depends on across-the-board implementation and effective enforcement. The Honourable Minister announced that all legal and enforcement machinery at the Government’s disposal will be used to ensure that the eradication of illicit cigarettes is realized.
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Speaking on the occasion, the Group Head of International Trade & Fiscal Affairs for BAT- Mr. Donato DelVecchio shed light on two significant investments in Pakistan. The first is the setting up of a tobacco-free nicotine-containing oral manufacturing plant. That plant will be a global center of excellence for developing, manufacturing, and exporting BAT’s portfolio of reduced-risk new category products. Secondly, the establishment of BAT’s New Global Business Services hub. Together, these investments account for more than USD 45 million injected into Pakistan’s economy.
The CEO & MD of PTC, Ali Akbar quoted the report and commented that in 2021, the company contributed PKR 133 billion in total taxes to the national exchequer, becoming one of the largest taxpayers in the country. The Company embarked on its Made in Pakistan journey for exports in 2018. Last year alone, 37.2 million dollars worth of products was also exported from Pakistan.
Over and above this tax contribution, PTC’s traditional business and its value chain made a total contribution of Rs. 122 billion to Pakistan’s GDP in 2021 and the company generated over 76,000 direct, indirect jobs and induced jobs.
