The federal government has ramped up efforts to expand the tax base and enhance revenue generation, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directing stringent measures against tax defaulters.
Chairing a high-level meeting to review revenue collection strategies, the prime minister emphasized that modernizing the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) through advanced technology is a top priority.
PM Shehbaz was briefed on the installation of video analytics in the sugar industry and highlighted its potential to improve revenue collection, curb hoarding, and stabilize prices. He directed the regular monitoring of sugar stocks to ensure their uninterrupted availability at affordable prices.
The meeting was attended by senior officials, including Federal Ministers Ahad Khan Cheema, Attaullah Tarar, and Ali Pervaiz Malik. The premier instructed indiscriminate action against tax evasion and under-reporting, particularly in the sugar industry.
Highlighting the ongoing digitization of the FBR, the prime minister noted that these measures are expected to bring substantial benefits to the national treasury. He also urged the swift implementation of video analytics technology in the cement and tobacco sectors to further enhance transparency and accountability.
These developments come after the recent launch of the Faceless Customs Assessment (FCA) System by the FBR. Part of the FBR Transformation Plan, this system enables the Central Appraising Unit (CAU) to assess import goods declarations centrally, starting December 14.
Additionally, an incentive-based performance management system has been introduced to improve the productivity and accountability of Customs appraising officers. Those performing with integrity and accuracy will be rewarded, while non-compliance could result in licence cancellation.
The reforms also include updates to the eligibility criteria for Customs Clearing Agents, with a new point-based scoring system to ensure accurate and high-quality declarations. Agents who consistently meet standards will improve their profiles, while repeated failures could lead to licence revocation.
