NBR Launches Campaign Against Illegal Tobacco Products

In an official directive issued on February 6, 2025, the NBR established 200 committees, led by circle revenue officers and supported by members of various law enforcement agencies, to oversee the crackdown across the country.

According to an NBR press release, tobacco products such as cigarettes, bidis, and smokeless tobacco contribute approximately 25 percent of the total VAT collected. Despite this, illegal domestic and foreign tobacco products, including counterfeit cigarettes, gul, jorda, and similar items, continue to flood the market.

The NBR highlighted that these illicit products not only pose a severe threat to public health but also damage the agency's reputation and deprive the government of significant tax revenue.

To enhance the effectiveness of the campaign, representatives from tobacco manufacturing companies have been included in the six-member committees.

The operations have gained momentum since January, with 52 raids conducted. From February 1 to 11 alone, 107 operations were carried out, with the number increasing daily. On February 10, 23 operations were executed, and the following day saw 54 operations across the country’s Commissionerates.

These efforts have already shown positive results, with a notable reduction in the availability of illegal tobacco products. At the same time, demand for legally produced, VAT-compliant tobacco goods has risen.

The NBR is confident that if the campaign continues with the same intensity, it will meet its revenue targets and further reduce the prevalence of illegal tobacco products in the market.