Islamabad (TDI): A recent report has revealed that petroleum products worth Rs396 billion are smuggled into Pakistan every year.
The report revealed that the total value of smuggling in the country stands at Rs750 billion, with petroleum being the largest category.
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Other smuggled items include tobacco, tyres, fabric, vehicles, tea, auto parts, betel nuts, and mobile phones.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in a meeting on Thursday, ordered strict action against petrol smuggling.
He noted that efforts to curb smuggling and the recent reduction in petrol and diesel prices had significantly boosted petroleum sales.
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In November 2024, sales reached 1.58 million tons, the highest in 25 months, compared to 1.37 million tons in the same month last year. Experts estimate the value of these sales at Rs 500 billion.
The federal government is planning a large-scale crackdown on petroleum smuggling. Authorities have decided to target illegal petrol pumps across the country. Proposals for changes to petroleum laws have already been submitted.
