From January 1, authorities will begin strict monitoring of buying and selling activities on social media platforms as part of efforts to curb illegal trade and tax evasion.
According to official sources, action will be taken against individuals and pages involved in selling smuggled or undocumented goods online. The move aims to regulate digital commerce and ensure compliance with tax and trade laws.
To verify transactions, tax officials will contact online sellers by posing as potential buyers. This method will help confirm the nature of goods being sold and identify sellers who are operating illegally or without proper registration.
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Authorities will also trace sellers through their registered email addresses and mobile phone numbers. In addition, NADRA’s assistance will be sought to verify identities and gather further information about individuals involved in online selling.
Officials stated that the initiative is not meant to target legitimate businesses but to bring unregistered and illegal online trade into the formal economy. Genuine sellers are being encouraged to register, maintain proper records, and comply with tax regulations.
The monitoring process is expected to improve transparency, reduce smuggling, and promote fair competition in both online and offline markets. Authorities have urged social media sellers to regularize their operations before enforcement begins to avoid legal action.
