ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari has approved a change in the composition of the 11th National Finance Commission (NFC).
This change became necessary after the Government of Balochistan revised its nomination. It recommended Mahfooz Ali Khan as its non ex-officio member for the 11th NFC. The President has now accorded approval to this new nomination, which supersedes the earlier one.
In addition, the President has given assent to three bills passed by parliament. They include: The Pakistan Land Port Authority Bill, 2025, The Criminal Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2025 and The Petroleum (Amendment) Bill, 2025. With presidential approval, these bills have now become acts of Parliament. The enactment of the Pakistan Land Port Authority Act, 2025 paves the way for the establishment of the Pakistan Land Port Authority. This new statutory body is mandated to facilitate the movement of goods and people across Pakistan’s border crossing points. It will act as a central platform for inter-agency coordination, ensuring smoother trade and passenger movement at land ports.
With this development, Pakistan becomes the third country in South Asia, after Bangladesh and India, to establish a dedicated land port authority. It will introduce a robust mechanism to coordinate with border management agencies. This will help streamline trade facilitation and enhance cross-border connectivity. The Authority will also play a crucial role in fulfilling Pakistan’s obligations under international agreements and conventions. The establishment of this body marks a major step towards strengthening regional trade integration, improving border management and boosting economic connectivity with neighbouring countries.
The Petroleum (Amendment) Act, 2025 strengthens enforcement against smuggling and illegal operation of petrol pumps. It empowers deputy commissioners, assistant commissioners, and Customs authorities to confiscate illegal petroleum products and vehicles. The Act also introduces IT-based tracking systems and imposes stricter penalties for violations. This legislation is expected to modernise petroleum sector regulations, improve transparency and support the government’s efforts against smuggling and tax evasion.