Baskin Robbins, the renowned ice cream vendor in Pakistan, has come under scrutiny amidst allegations of substantial tax evasion and money laundering.
The American food giant entered the Pakistani market in 2017, swiftly expanding with numerous outlets across the country. However, within a year of its operations, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) began monitoring the company closely after discovering over Rs. 2 billion in a bank account linked to the proprietor of Baskin Robbins Pakistan.
Recent revelations reported in local media indicate that the Revenue Authority has imposed fines exceeding Rs. 3 billion on the company. These penalties stem from serious accusations of tax evasion and other illicit activities.
Furthermore, the FIA’s Anti-Money Laundering Unit in Lahore has initiated an investigation based on complaints alleging money laundering and hawala transactions amounting to $10 million. Initial inquiries under complaint number 222/2023 have resulted in notices being issued to company officials.
Authorities from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and Pakistan Customs have been mobilized to gather comprehensive information from banks and relevant institutions, shedding light on the financial transactions under scrutiny.
The investigation was prompted by a complaint lodged by an individual named Hafeez, who raised concerns about potential large-scale tax evasion and money laundering activities involving Baskin Robbins.
The unfolding investigation underscores growing regulatory scrutiny over financial practices within multinational corporations operating in Pakistan, highlighting the government’s commitment to ensuring transparency and compliance with fiscal regulations.
