ISLAMABAD – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday directed to accelerate measures against tax evasion and smuggling, stressing that no leniency will be shown in this regard.
He was chairing a weekly review meeting on the performance of the Federal Board of Revenue in Islamabad.
During the meeting, the PM was briefed on the progress of FBR’s anti-smuggling initiatives and other key matters. He appreciated the successful actions taken by FBR and Pakistan Customs, noting that effective enforcement has led to a significant reduction in smuggling. Shehbaz Sharif said every year the nation suffers losses worth billions of rupees due to smuggling. He added that curbing this menace has enabled several commodities to be imported legally and become part of the documented economy. The prime minister instructed provincial governments to extend full cooperation with FBR in legal action against illegal petrol pumps.
The meeting was informed that an integrated customs system has been implemented across the country to prevent smuggling.
It was also shared that petrol pumps nationwide have been registered through the Rahguzar App, while legal action against illegal outlets is ongoing.
The meeting was further apprised that district administrations have been empowered under the new Petroleum Act to confiscate illegal machinery, while a GPS tracking system for the transportation of petroleum products has also been made operational.
It was told that from July to November 2025, revenue witnessed an eighty-two percent increase compared to the same period last year due to effective measures against smuggling of petroleum products.
Besides, actions against illegal smuggling of cigarettes, tyres, garments, electronics and other goods over the past five months have also led to a significant rise in revenue.
Also, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has underscored the need for expanding bilateral trade and investment between Pakistan and Australia.
Talking to the newly appointed High Commissioner of Australia Tim Kane in Islamabad today, he highlighted the agriculture and livestock sector as a promising area for enhanced cooperation.
The Prime Minister also welcomed Australian interest in the mining & minerals sector, citing Reko-Diq as a shining example of the enormous potential of this sector in Pakistan.
He also lauded the valuable contribution of the vibrant Pakistani diaspora in Australia, which served as a vital bridge between the two nations.
The Prime Minister noted that both Pakistan and Australia, enjoyed strong people-to-people linkages, and cultural ties, underpinned by their shared passion for cricket.
The Prime Minister conveyed deepest condolences over the tragic loss of innocent lives in the terrorist shooting at Bondi Beach, Sydney. He said Pakistan unequivocally condemned this cowardly act of terrorism.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s solidarity with Australia in its hour of grief, the Prime Minister emphasized that terrorism had no religion and it must be condemned in all forms and manifestations, while collective action was required to eradicate this menace.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reiterated Pakistan’s firm commitment to multifaceted cooperation with Tajikistan, including in trade, connectivity, energy, and culture, for the mutual benefit of both nations.
He was talking to Tajikistan Minister of Culture Ms. Sattoriyon Matlubakhon Amonzoda, who called on him, in Islamabad today.
The Prime Minister extended a warm welcome to the visiting Minister and her delegation, underscoring the deep-rooted historical, cultural, and civilizational ties between Pakistan and Tajikistan. He emphasized that the shared heritage of the two brotherly nations provides a strong foundation for further enhancing people-to-people contacts and cultural cooperation.
During the meeting, the Prime Minister expressed satisfaction over the ongoing positive trajectory of bilateral relations and discussed ways to deepen collaboration in the field of culture.
Shehbaz Sharif highlighted the significance of the ongoing Pakistan-Tajikistan Cultural week, being held in Islamabad this week, as a landmark initiative to celebrate the rich traditions, arts, and heritage of both countries. He noted that such exchanges would foster greater mutual understanding and strengthen the bonds of friendship between the peoples of Pakistan and Tajikistan.
The Prime Minister also conveyed his best wishes to Tajikistan President Emomali Rahmon and hoped to welcome him to Pakistan for an official visit next year.
The Tajik Minister of Culture conveyed the warm greetings of President Emomali Rahmon and appreciated Pakistan’s hospitality and commitment to cultural diplomacy. She expressed Tajikistan’s keen interest in expanding joint cultural programs, including artist exchanges, festivals, and exhibitions.
As agreed between the President of Tajikistan Emomali Rehmon and the Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, Tajikistan’s cultural week is being celebrated in Pakistan these days and the visit of Tajikistan’s culture Minister is in the same context.
