Stora Enso, Finland, has signed an agreement to divest its 35% holding in the equity accounted investment Bulleh Shah Packaging Ltd. (BSP) to the main owner Packages Ltd. The transaction is expected to be completed in the third quarter of 2017.

The cash consideration for the divestment of the shares is EUR 6 million. The loss on disposal amounts in total to approximately EUR 19 million. These will be recorded as items affecting comparability (IAC) in Stora Enso’s third quarter 2017 results. 

"Stora Enso is focusing its strategy on delivering profitable growth. Due to a changing business environment in Pakistan, the Bulleh Shah Packaging asset with its product mix and related future outlook is a non-strategic fit in our consumer board roadmap. Our focus is on high quality virgin-fiber products. We are committed to make a responsible divestment and intend to leave a positive contribution in the society," said Stora Enso CEO Karl-Henrik Sundström.

Stora Enso will carry on with the Public Private Partnership with the International Labor Organization (ILO) to promote decent work and to combat child labor in the Punjab Province of Pakistan until the end of 2018. Also, the group will continue to support its share of the two community investment programs it has been funding in Pakistan. At Stora Enso’s request, an independent third party, KPMG Sustainability Services, is advising Stora Enso on its responsible exit from Pakistan.

With this transaction, Packages Ltd. will achieve full ownership of Bulleh Shah Packaging Ltd. 

Packages Limited is principally engaged in the manufacture and sale of packaging materials and tissue products.