The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has decided to launch a comprehensive crackdown on individuals and businesses selling smuggled and non-custom-paid goods through social media platforms.
According to official sources, tax authorities will begin actively monitoring social media accounts involved in such sales from January 1. Dedicated teams will compile detailed data on suspected sellers operating across various digital platforms.
As part of the enforcement strategy, tax officials will pose as potential customers to engage with sellers online. Through these interactions, they will obtain mobile numbers, email addresses, and other identifying details. This will help trace individuals involved in the illegal trade.
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FBR sources revealed that a wide range of smuggled products are being marketed online. These include electronics, household appliances, footwear, clothing, cosmetics, tools, chocolates, chewing gum, blankets, bedsheets, carpets, tyres, auto parts, laptops, Chromebooks, and desktop computers.
Additional items reportedly sold through social media include kitchen appliances such as stoves and ovens. Crockery, juicers and choppers, dry fruits, canned foods, jams, olive oil, imported groceries, furniture, and decorative items are also being sold. Moreover, tiles, sanitary fittings, and related products are included.
Authorities said sellers will be traced through their registered mobile numbers and email addresses. Identity verification will be carried out in coordination with the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA). Once identified, notices will be issued, and enforcement teams will locate physical shops and warehouses. This is for further legal action.
In an official statement, the FBR said it remains committed to strengthening enforcement. This will be through intelligence-based operations and inter-agency coordination to curb smuggling and safeguard the national economy.
Earlier, the FBR announced plans for a nationwide drive against tax evaders. These are individuals who publicly flaunt lavish lifestyles on social media while failing to file income tax returns. Its Social Media Monitoring Team has already gathered data on such individuals as part of broader compliance and enforcement efforts.
