Pakistani-American businessman Sajid Tarar is making headlines online after he suggested that Pakistan could clear its debt to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) by legalizing alcohol and collecting taxes on its sale. In a video clip that quickly went viral on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Tarar claimed that a large number of people in Pakistan already consume alcohol, despite strict laws against it.
Speaking in the clip, Tarar said, “Legalize alcohol and tax it—because every second person in Pakistan drinks. If taxed, we could pay off the country’s entire debt.”
His comments sparked widespread debate, with reactions ranging from criticism to laughter. Many people questioned the accuracy of his claims and pointed out that Pakistan, being an Islamic republic, has strict religious and legal restrictions on alcohol. Others argued that such a policy would not only face strong opposition from religious groups but would also challenge long-standing cultural norms.
While some social media users found Tarar’s statement bold or thought-provoking, others dismissed it as unrealistic or overly simplified. Critics argued that the country’s economic problems are complex and cannot be solved by a single policy change—especially one that would face serious legal, religious, and moral opposition.
Despite the backlash, the video has continued to circulate widely, adding fuel to ongoing discussions about Pakistan’s economic challenges and potential reforms.
