ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed satisfaction over reduction in smuggling but directed authorities to intensify their efforts to eliminate issue completely.

Chairing meeting to review anti-smuggling measures, he reiterated government's commitment to safeguard national economy from smugglers.

He emphasised importance of using modern technology to curb smuggling and instructed authorities to apprehend those involved, including their facilitators and seize transport vehicles used for illicit activities.

He called for improved coordination among Federal Board of Revenue, Interior Ministry and other relevant departments. He sought comprehensive strategy to generate employment opportunities in frontier regions to further deter smuggling.During briefing, Ministry reported success of nationwide campaign targeting smuggling of petroleum products, cigarettes, mobile phones, gold, tea, clothes and vehicle parts.

Officials highlighted launch of web portal aimed at curbing urea and sugar smuggling, with 54 joint check posts established under PM's directives.

Report revealed that 212 Afghan transit trade goods considered at high risk of smuggling had been banned, with mandatory bank guarantees replacing insurance guarantees for trade.  Action is being taken against officials found complicit in smuggling, with ongoing efforts to identify smugglers, their facilitators and transporters through collaboration with NADRA and other agencies.

Published in The Daily National Courier, August, 22 2024

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