Dar reviews measures to stop dollar smuggling

Finance Minister Ishaq Dar on Friday chaired an inter-ministerial follow-up meeting on anti-smuggling measures amid shortage of dollars, directing authorities to expedite the investigation process.

The finance minister highlighted the necessity to stop cross-border smuggling of foreign currency and other valuable items affecting economic growth in the country.

Minister for Law and Justice Azam Nazeer Tarar, SAPM on Finance Tariq Bajwa, SAPM on Revenue Tariq Pasha, the SBP governor, secretary finance, secretary interior, DG customs, member customs, ADG FIA and senior officers from the Finance Division participated in the meeting, said a statement.

The meeting was apprised that strict and vigilant operations had been initiated against the illegal cross-border movement of foreign currency, urea, wheat and other items by the customs, law enforcement and intelligence agencies.

It was informed that a large quantity of foreign currency and other valuable items had been confiscated at various points between December 9-15, 2022 period due to these strict measures.

The representatives of Pakistan Customs, the FIA, and interior ministry informed the meeting about their progress, suggesting pragmatic measures to curb the menace of smuggling.

Dar stressed the need for coordination among all the agencies concerned for the purpose and directed them to take comprehensive and combined action against those involved in smuggling activities and currency speculation.

The finance minister directed the authorities to speed up their operations to curb cross-border smuggling.

It was also decided that a regular review meeting on anti-smuggling operations would be held on a weekly basis.

In conclusion, the participants appreciated the finance minister for taking appropriate and active measures for tackling the current economic situation and assured him of their support for ensuring smooth and sustainable economic growth.