Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday chaired a weekly review meeting on the performance of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), stressing that decisive action against smuggling and tax evasion is critical to protecting Pakistan’s economy.
The meeting focused on a detailed review of FBR’s overall performance, including progress on anti-smuggling measures and other key enforcement initiatives. Officials briefed the prime minister on ongoing efforts and outcomes achieved so far.
FBR officials also appreciated the prime minister’s leadership in ensuring the success of recent anti-smuggling operations.
Billions lost annually to smuggling
Prime Minister Sharif said that every year billions of rupees of valuable national capital are lost due to smuggling, severely harming the economy. He described the reduction in smuggling through the successful operations of Pakistan Customs as commendable.
He noted that curbing smuggling is essential for economic stability and revenue growth.
The prime minister said that as a result of effective anti-smuggling measures, many goods are now being imported legally and becoming part of the formal economy. He added that this shift is strengthening national revenue and promoting fair business practices.
No leniency for tax evasion, smuggling
The PM directed authorities to further intensify measures against tax evasion, making it clear that no leniency would be shown to those involved in smuggling or avoiding taxes.
He also instructed provincial governments to fully cooperate with the FBR, particularly in taking action against illegal petrol pumps.
During the briefing, officials informed the prime minister that an integrated customs system has been implemented across the country to prevent smuggling. This system is designed to improve coordination and enforcement at all levels.
Crackdown on illegal petrol pumps
The meeting was told that petrol pumps across Pakistan have been registered through the Raahguzar app, helping authorities track legal operations. Legal action is currently underway against illegal petrol pumps nationwide.
Under the new Petroleum Act, district administrations have been granted the authority to seize illegal machinery, strengthening enforcement at the local level.
GPS tracking boosts petroleum revenue
Officials also briefed the prime minister that a GPS tracking system has been implemented during the transportation of petroleum products to curb illegal diversion and smuggling.
As a result of these measures, revenue from petroleum products increased by 82% from July to November last year, following the effective control of smuggling.
Shehbaz reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sustaining and expanding anti-smuggling and tax enforcement efforts. He emphasized that strict implementation of these measures is vital for protecting national resources and strengthening Pakistan’s economy.
