Pakistan is facing a severe economic crisis as it loses a staggering USD 23 billion per year due to black marketing and smuggling, according to a report by ACE Money Transfer, a UK-based company. These clandestine operations, which include black market currency trade, oil smuggling, gold smuggling, and import controls, have detrimental effects on Pakistan's economic stability and lead to a loss of government revenue. The report highlights that these illicit activities also fuel a shadow economy, making it harder to track and regulate economic activities. They distort exchange rates, leading to currency devaluation and fueling inflation as imported goods become costlier.

Furthermore, such activities undermine the efficacy of monetary policies and erode confidence in the financial system. Pakistan has experienced significant fluctuations in its exchange rates in recent years, exacerbating its economic challenges. Experts emphasize the urgent need to eradicate smuggling in key sectors to facilitate Pakistan's economic recovery. Improved governance is crucial in achieving this goal and is expected to bring stability to financial markets and foster economic and financial growth, according to the ACE group of companies' CEO, Rashid Ashraf.

The report estimates that Pakistan loses around USD 150 million per month due to dollar smuggling, resulting in an alarming annual figure of approximately USD 2 billion. Gold smuggling is another major challenge, with only 1.32 percent of the significant gold market value of PKR Rs 2.2 trillion (USD 7.1 billion) officially declared to tax authorities. Smuggled Iranian oil also poses a significant problem, accounting for over 30 percent of Pakistan's diesel market. This illicit trade costs the government more than USD 1 billion annually, further deteriorating the country's economic situation.

The report also sheds light on the unintended consequences of import bans, which, despite their well-intentioned implementation, have given rise to a shadow economy. Smuggling, misreporting, and product substitution have become common methods to bypass import restrictions. This disruption in economic activity has the potential to significantly increase unemployment figures, with projections exceeding 2 million people by the end of 2023. To address these issues and restore economic stability, it is crucial for Pakistan to prioritize combating smuggling in key sectors, strengthen governance, and crack down on illicit activities. Only through these measures can Pakistan hope to overcome its economic challenges and foster sustainable growth.