Non-duty-paid cigarettes, illegal trade networks: FBR, provinces intensify operations

The Federal Board of Revenue and provincial authorities have intensified nationwide operations against non-duty-paid cigarettes and illegal trade networks, leading to the seizure of illicit cigarettes and raw materials equivalent to nearly 17 billion cigarette sticks during 2025-26, representing nearly 40 percent of the total illicit cigarette market. Following strategic guidance issued by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to the FBR and provincial authorities had strengthened and accelerated action against non-duty-paid cigarettes and illegal trade activities across the country.