The Excise Taxation and Narcotics Control Department in Punjab commenced the registration and licensing of tobacco vendors on Friday, as per the Punjab Tobacco Control Act 1958.
New Licensing Rules and Penalties
Under the new campaign, violators can face fines of up to Rs. 100,000, and a media awareness campaign about the licensing requirements will be initiated, according to Excise & Taxation Director General (DG) Muhammad Ali.
Increased Licensing Fee and Plans for a Tobacco-Free City
For the first time since 1958, the tobacco licensing fee has been raised by 15% annually. Currently, the fee is Rs. 1000 for small hawkers, Rs. 5000 to Rs. 8000 for larger vendors, and Rs. 15,000 for the biggest vendors. Mr. Ali also expressed the goal of making Murree a tobacco-free city, with the support of federal government and NGOs, implementing national and international tobacco control agendas in the hill station.
Importance of Licensing in Tobacco Control
Ms. Cathy Wright from the anti-tobacco NGO, The Union, emphasized the significance of the licensing process as a critical tool in curbing tobacco usage. The organization assured its full support to the Excise Department’s campaign.
Boosting Government Revenues
Excise Additional DG Ahmed Saeed stated that registering over 25,000 tobacco businesses in Punjab would lead to increased government revenues. While licensing for mega stores has already been completed, the process is ongoing for other stores.
