National Assembly on Wednesday passed Petroleum Amendment Act 2025 which will replace Petroleum Act 1934. The bill proposes strict penalties for the illegal production and sale of petroleum products, reported 24NewsHDTV Channel.
Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz tabled the Bill. The proposed Petroleum Amendment Act 2025 bill will come into force immediately. According to proposed law, anyone who illegally imports, transports, stores, sells, refines or blends any petroleum product will be liable to a fine of Rs 1 million. In case of a repeat offense, a fine of up to Rs 5 million will be imposed. License will be immediately revoked for illegal sale of petroleum products.
All machinery, equipment, tools, storage tanks, containers and petroleum products shall be seized by the Deputy Commissioner or any officer not below the rank of Assistant Commissioner authorized by him if the anyone found indulge in illegal business.
If found in illegal activities, pump owner will be fined Rs 10 million. A grace period of 6 months will be given from the date of expiry or cancellation of the license. The license can be renewed or restored under applicable laws. Failure by the petroleum centers will result in the closure of the petroleum center. The owner will be fined Rs 1 million.
If the concerned officer fails to renew the license within the stipulated period, he shall record in writing the reasons for the delay. An appeal against refusal or failure to renew the license shall be filed with the Secretary Petroleum Division. The appeal shall be filed within 30 days from the date of announcement of the decision of the concerned officer.
Any licensed premises, its owner involved in storing or selling smuggled petroleum products will be sealed. All machinery, equipment, tools, storage tanks, containers and petroleum products will be confiscated.
The owner will be liable to a fine of Rs. 100 million. The Explosives Department will cancel the license of such place or facility, as the case may be. Any means of transportation in the delivery of smuggled products. All petroleum products contained therein will be seized by the concerned officers.