RBN News | International Desk | January 2026

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif found himself at the centre of widespread ridicule after inaugurating what was later revealed to be an unauthorised Pizza Hut outlet in Sialkot Cantonment, triggering embarrassment for both the minister and the Pakistani establishment.

Photos and videos circulating online showed Khawaja Asif attending a formal inauguration ceremony at the outlet earlier this week. The event featured a ribbon-cutting, floral decorations, and a small gathering, giving the appearance of a legitimate launch of an international food franchise.

The outlet prominently displayed Pizza Hut’s iconic red roof logo and branding, creating the impression of an official outlet.

However, social media users and industry observers were quick to flag discrepancies, noting that the Sialkot location did not appear on Pizza Hut Pakistan’s official list of authorised stores.

Pizza Hut Pakistan Issues ClarificationSoon after the inauguration, Pizza Hut Pakistan issued an official public statement distancing itself from the outlet, stating that the Sialkot establishment was unauthorised and falsely using the brand’s name and identity.

In its statement, the company said:“Pizza Hut Pakistan informs our valued customers that an unauthorised outlet falsely using the Pizza Hut name and branding has recently opened in Sialkot Cantonment.”

The company categorically clarified that the outlet has no legal or operational association with either Pizza Hut Pakistan or its parent company, Yum! Brands.“

This outlet does not follow Pizza Hut International recipes, quality protocols, food safety, or operational standards,” the statement added.Pizza Hut Pakistan further confirmed that it has formally lodged a complaint with relevant authorities to stop the misuse of its trademark and ensure immediate action.

Only 16 Authorised Pizza Hut Stores in PakistanAccording to the company, Pizza Hut Pakistan currently operates 16 authorised outlets nationwide, including:14 outlets in Lahore2 outlets in IslamabadThe Sialkot outlet is not among the officially approved locations, and customers have been advised to verify genuine Pizza Hut stores through authorised channels.

Social Media Backlash and Questions RaisedFollowing the clarification, images and videos from the inauguration quickly went viral, with users mocking the incident and questioning how a senior federal minister inaugurated a commercial outlet without verifying its authenticity.

The episode has reignited debate within Pakistan about due diligence, governance standards, and accountability of public office holders, particularly when associated with international brands.

Political analysts note that the incident has become a symbol of administrative negligence, with critics arguing that such lapses undermine credibility at a time when Pakistan is already facing economic and governance challenges.

International Brand Misuse ConcernsFrom a broader perspective, the incident highlights concerns around trademark misuse and regulatory oversight in Pakistan.

Experts warn that unauthorised outlets using global brand identities not only damage brand reputation but also pose serious food safety and consumer protection risks.

RBN News will continue to track further developments, including any legal or regulatory action taken against the operators of the fake outlet.

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