KARACHI: A new record for Pakistan’s tobacco sector was set by Philip Morris (Pakistan) Limited (PMPKL) which exported around 7.3 million kilograms of tobacco in 2017, an increase of more than 400 per cent versus the previous year. The increase was made possible by focusing on sustainable tobacco production and cost competitiveness, said an official statement issued by the company said.

Tobacco export destinations included Asia, Europe and Africa this year.

In 2017, PMPKL accounted for more than 80pc of Pakistan’s overall tobacco export volume of 8.7 million kilograms.

Philip Morris tobacco exports contributed an estimated $18 million to Pakistan’s foreign currency export earnings during July-Oct, 2017, according to the data released by Pakistan Bureau of Statistics. Managing Director PMPKL Alexander Reisch said the company will continue to work with Pakistan’s valued tobacco farmers to implement the Sustainable Tobacco Production Programme, and facilitate crop buying process through its recently established mega buying station.

Chairman Pakistan Tobacco Board, Syed Sohail Altaf appreciated PMPKL’s efforts in boosting the country’s tobacco exports.

Published in Dawn, December 31st, 2017