Mohsin Siddiqui (Chief Reporter)
Ms. Ismat Gul Khattak, Director General of the Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA), a meticulous crackdown operation unfolded on December 28, 2023. Led by Engr. Muhammad Ashraf Palari, Director of Conformity Assessment – South, and supported by the Economic Journalist Forum, the PSQCA’s Karachi Zone team targeted various entities to ensure compliance with PSQCA standards.
The operation zeroed in on scrutinizing stockists, distributors, and traders, resulting in the confiscation of substantial quantities of Forvil products, such as Bio Amla Shampoo, Bio 7day Skin Cream, Bio Nikhar Skin Cream, and Praima Hair Color. Entities affected by the crackdown included M. K Enterprises, 3B Traders, Qadri Traders, and AA Traders.
Recent revelations from credible sources have exposed Forvil Cosmetics for alleged unlawful activities, including the unauthorized use of the name and license of PSQCA. Shockingly, the company is implicated in a substantial sales tax evasion scheme, amounting to hundreds of millions of rupees.
The unauthorized use of the PSQCA name raises serious questions about Forvil Cosmetics’ operations and compliance with regulatory standards, compromising the company’s credibility and potentially endangering consumer trust.
The alleged involvement in a massive sales tax evasion scheme adds another layer of concern, indicating potential financial misconduct on a significant scale. The evasion of hundreds of millions of rupees in sales tax raises questions about the transparency and legitimacy of Forvil Cosmetics’ financial dealings.
This decisive action by the PSQCA team aligns with Ms. Ismat Gul Khattak’s directive to uphold unwavering standards in consumer products. Prompted by consumer complaints received by the Economic Journalist Forum, expressing concerns about the quality of Forvil Cosmetics products in the market, the operation highlights PSQCA’s commitment to maintaining high-quality standards and safeguarding consumer interests.
Ms. Ismat Gul Khattak, expressing satisfaction at the successful crackdown, reiterated PSQCA’s unwavering belief in standards without compromise. She stated, “PSQCA remains resolute in its commitment to ensuring the highest standards of quality for all products available in the market.”
Deputy Director CAK, Mr. Sajid Mian Bhutto, who led the operation, emphasized the authority’s relentless pursuit of adherence to established standards. He stated, “Our aim is to guarantee the safety and satisfaction of consumers by eradicating substandard products from the market.”
The PSQCA acknowledges and appreciates the support and encouragement received from the masses for its proactive measures against substandard products. Notices have been issued to the entities involved, and further actions will be initiated in accordance with the law.
