Philip Morris Pakistan Exports $48 Million in Raw Tobacco Over Five Years
ISLAMABAD – Philip Morris Pakistan (PMPKL) has reported $48 million in raw tobacco exports over the last five years, driven by its commitment to sustainability initiatives.
In just the first half of 2024, PMPKL exported over $15.8 million in tobacco, surpassing last year’s total of $13.9 million. During a recent visit by journalists to PMPKL’s Green Leaf Threshing (GLT) facility in Mardan, company officials emphasized their dedication not only to producing high-quality cigarettes but also to significantly boosting raw tobacco exports. “PMPKL has integrated sustainable practices into its operations, focusing on crop diversification, social sustainability, and environmental stewardship,” stated Abid Javed, Head of Leaf PMPKL. He noted that these initiatives have added tremendous value to both operations and the local community.
As part of its Crop Diversification Initiative under the Integrated Production System (IPS), PMPKL has introduced mechanization in tobacco farming. This includes deploying 30 tractor-pulled transplanters, 1,675 suckericide applicators, and 116 intercultivators. Additionally, 625 farmers have been trained in mushroom farming, yielding 14,413 kilograms and boosting incomes by an average of Rs11,691 per farmer. Kitchen gardening programs have also benefited 3,719 farmers, enhancing their incomes by Rs23,633 through vegetable seed packages. Moreover, bean seeds distributed to 344 farmers have resulted in an income increase of Rs13,000 each.
PMPKL’s social sustainability efforts aim to eliminate child labor, ensure fair wages, and improve working conditions. Their “Learning with Safety’s Fun” initiative has positively impacted 5,000 children, while the distribution of 792 stringing machines has reduced labor costs by Rs20,519 per hectare. The company has also provided vocational training to 3,521 young people aged 15-17 in areas such as tailoring, electrical work, and food processing. Furthermore, the ALP Support Line has been launched to address labor grievances, alongside awareness campaigns on labor practices conducted through street theater and village outreach programs.
