Philip Morris Pakistan exports $48 million in tobacco over five years

ISLAMABAD: Philip Morris Pakistan Limited (PMPKL) has exported raw tobacco worth $48 million over the past five years, according to Business Recorder.

In just the first half of 2024, PMPKL exported over $15.8 million worth of tobacco to various countries, already exceeding last year’s total export value of $13.9 million.

According to Abid Javed, Head of Leaf at PMPKL, the company has embraced sustainable practices in its operations, focusing on crop diversification, environmental responsibility, and social sustainability.

Under its Crop Diversification Initiative, PMPKL has introduced mechanisation into tobacco farming, which includes the use of 30 tractor-pulled transplanters, 1,675 suckericide applicators, and 116 inter-cultivators. These advancements aim to improve efficiency and productivity.

Additionally, 625 farmers have been trained in mushroom farming, collectively producing 14,413 kilograms of mushrooms and boosting their earnings by an average of Rs11,691 per farmer.

PMPKL has also supported 3,719 farmers through kitchen gardening programmes by providing vegetable seed packages, helping them increase their incomes by Rs23,633. Moreover, 344 farmers received bean seeds, contributing to an income rise of Rs13,000 per farmer.

The company’s social sustainability efforts have focused on eliminating child labour, promoting fair wages, and improving working conditions. Its “Learning with Safety & Fun” initiative has benefited 5,000 children. In addition, PMPKL has distributed 792 stringing machines, reducing labour costs by Rs20,519 per hectare.

According to Business Recorder, the company has also invested in the future of young people, providing vocational training to 3,521 youths aged 15-17 in various trades, including tailoring, electrical work, and food processing.

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