Islamabad, December 19, 2025 – Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Friday ordered the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and provincial governments to initiate a massive crackdown on illegal petrol pumps operating across Pakistan. The directive aims to strengthen enforcement against smuggling, tax evasion, and illicit trade, ensuring protection of the country’s economic interests.
During a weekly performance review meeting of the FBR, the prime minister lauded recent anti-smuggling operations and emphasized the need to intensify efforts against illegal petroleum outlets. He highlighted that smuggling causes billions of rupees in losses annually to the national exchequer and stressed that decisive action is essential to secure Pakistan’s fiscal stability.
The meeting also recognized the role of Pakistan Customs in reducing smuggling, noting that several commodities previously trafficked illegally are now entering the formal economy through legal channels. The prime minister reiterated that no leniency will be shown in cases involving smuggling or tax fraud, and called on provincial authorities to fully cooperate with the FBR in enforcing legal measures against illicit petrol stations.
Officials briefed that an integrated customs enforcement system has been implemented nationwide to curb smuggling. Through the Rahguzar App, all petrol pumps have been registered, and legal action is ongoing against illegal outlets. District administrations, empowered under the Petroleum Act, can now seize unlawful machinery, while a GPS-based tracking system monitors petroleum transportation.
Between July and November 2025, these measures against petroleum smuggling resulted in an 82% increase in revenue compared to the same period last year. Significant revenue gains were also achieved through enforcement against the illegal smuggling of cigarettes, tyres, garments, electronics, and other commodities.
The meeting was attended by Federal Ministers Muhammad Aurangzeb and Ahad Khan Cheema, Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani, the Chairman FBR, and senior officials from relevant departments.