Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif commended the progress made in reducing smuggling but urged authorities to step up efforts to completely eradicate the issue. During a meeting to review anti-smuggling measures, the prime minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting the national economy from smugglers. He emphasized the need for modern technology to combat smuggling and instructed authorities to apprehend those involved, including facilitators and transporters. The prime minister also called for improved interdepartmental coordination and a comprehensive strategy to create jobs in border regions to deter smuggling.
The meeting highlighted the success of a nationwide anti-smuggling campaign, which resulted in significant reductions in the smuggling of various goods, including petroleum products and sugar. Authorities reported the launch of a web portal to curb urea and sugar smuggling, the establishment of joint checkposts, and the banning of high-risk Afghan transit trade goods. The drive has led to the confiscation of smuggled goods worth billions of rupees and a decrease in hoarding practices. Action is being taken against complicit officials, and efforts are ongoing to identify smugglers and their networks through collaboration with relevant agencies
