ISLAMABAD: Vehicles or means of transport used to move smuggled goods are now subject to immediate confiscation without the option of payment of a fine, under a recent amendment.

The change, made to SRO 499 of 2009, empowers authorities to confiscate vehicles used for transporting smuggled goods as part of a decisive move to intensify the government’s anti-smuggling campaign.

An official announcement by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) said the amendment, announced earlier this month, was a reflection of the government’s resolve to eradicate smuggling, which deprives the economy of critical revenue and encourages informal economy.

Under the amendment, all means of transport used in the movement of smuggled goods would now be subject to immediate confiscation with no option of paying a fine. This is a significant shift from the previous regime, where offenders had the opportunity to get back the seized vehicles upon payment of a redemption fine.

The new measure closes a loophole, ensuring that the tools used in smuggling operations are permanently removed from circulation.

FBR Chairman Rashid Mahmood Langrial has called for immediate ac­­tion by Customs officials and law enforcement agencies to enforce this amendment through coordinated efforts and ensure that all conveyances used in smuggling activities, once impounded, are permanently removed from ope­­ration.

Published in Dawn, October 10th, 2024

Follow Dawn Business on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook for insights on business, finance and tech from Pakistan and across the world.

Opinion

Editorial

China security ties
Updated 14 Nov, 2024

China security ties

If China's security concerns aren't addressed satisfactorily, it may affect bilateral ties. CT cooperation should be pursued instead of having foreign forces here.
Steep price
14 Nov, 2024

Steep price

THE Hindu Kush-Himalayan region is in big trouble. A new study unveiled at the ongoing COP29 reveals that if high...
A high-cost plan
14 Nov, 2024

A high-cost plan

THE government has approved an expensive plan for FBR in the hope of tackling its deep-seated inefficiencies. The...
United stance
Updated 13 Nov, 2024

United stance

It would've been better if the OIC-Arab League summit had announced practical measures to punish Israel.
Unscheduled visit
13 Nov, 2024

Unscheduled visit

Unusual IMF visit shows the lender will closely watch implementation of programme goals to prevent it from derailing.
Bara’s businesswomen
13 Nov, 2024

Bara’s businesswomen

Bara’s brave women have proven that with the right support, societal barriers can be overcome.