As Pakistan steps up regulatory pressure on its formal tobacco industry, a much larger threat continues to flourish unchecked. Illicit cigarette brands – neither taxed nor regulated – now account for over half of the market, operating openly and with impunity.

These brands evade taxation entirely, adhere to no rules, and continue to grow rapidly. Enforcement efforts remain focused on the visible, regulated players, while the real damage stems from what lies beneath the surface.

Despite contributing close to Rs270 billion annually in taxes, the formal tobacco sector has seen its market........

© Daily Pakistan