Pundits warn of increase in goods smuggling

The stabilisation of Pakistan's economy may receive another jolt in the year 2025 as neighbouring country Afghanistan's secret aid has been suspended by the new Trump administration in the US. Market pundits are warning against smuggling of food and non-food items from Pakistan to Afghanistan. "Out of all worries, we anticipate a huge smuggling of the US dollar to Afghanistan, which can once again create shortage in Pakistan, thereby weakening the rupee further," said Atif Ali, a currency dealer. Pakistan's economy, already grappling with inflation, debt and stagnant growth, faces an insidious challenge of a thriving smuggling network that bleeds billions annually. From fuel to smartphones, illicit trade undermines local industries, deprives the state of revenue and fuels a parallel 'grey economy' that experts say rivals the formal sector in size.