SWAT
Pakistan Tobacco Board (PTB) officials visited tobacco purchase centers in Swat to review the purchase process and listen to farmers’ concerns, said a statement.
During the visit, Secretary PTB Dr Hafiz Abdul Samad and Deputy Director Marketing Dr Waqas Gilani directed that the government should receive the purchase quota first, according to rules, adding that Tobacco companies should guide farmers during cultivation and then make purchases.
Secretary PTB Dr Hafiz Abdul Samad said that illegal purchases of the tobacco are not allowed. The officials of the PTB also announced that 700000 kilograms of tobacco will be cultivated and purchased in Swat in 2024, compared to 200000 last year.
A Tobacco Board office will be opened in Swat to address farmers’ issues, the announced and assured farmers that the PTB is always available to solve their problems.
The visit aimed to address farmers’ concerns, ensure a smooth purchase process, and promote legal and guided tobacco cultivation and trade, the added.
