Smuggling of goods ruins local industry

ISLAMABAD - The illegal import of goods from other countries, especially from neighbouring states, is having adverse effects on the local local industry as well as economy of Pakistan.

During a survey, several traders, shopkeepers and owners of departmental stores as well as small grocery stores in the Capital gave their version to TheNation about cross-border smuggling.

The traders that hold business activities in posh as well as peripheral sectors here said the trend of shopping among citizens was increasing with the fast approaching Eid, however, most of the people preferred to buy imported goods, most of which had been brought by several traders without paying any duties and were thus available at low prices.

“Consumers preferred imported goods due to their good quality, durability and low prices,” said Shaukat, owner of departmental store in G-10. “People are least bothered about the fact that the trend of purchasing non-custom paid items is weakening our indigenous industry,” he added.