Tax System
Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar informed a delegation of businessmen that the government is reforming the tax system through digitization.
He emphasized the need to boost tax collection for economic development during a meeting with the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) in the federal capital.
The PM’s Office issued a statement, stating that the interim government aims to achieve economic stability by gaining the confidence of traders, industrialists, and investors.
The statement followed a briefing by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to the PM on the taxation system and measures to expand the taxpayer base, particularly by integrating more retailers into the FBR’s Point-of-Sale (POS) system.
Furthermore, the FBR assured the premier that it would add one million new taxpayers to the tax roll and include 20,000 retailers in the POS system by June 2024.
The PM directed relevant authorities to submit a report on expanding the FBR’s POS system and improving the performance of commercial attaches in Pakistan’s diplomatic missions.
PM Kakar highlighted the positive outcomes of the government’s recent crackdown on smuggling, stating that operations were conducted nationwide, especially in border areas, and neighboring countries welcomed the move, with trade consultations underway.
He mentioned ongoing reforms in the power sector and actions against electricity theft. Resolving issues faced by the business community is a government priority.
The PM welcomed the delegation’s proposals, promising to implement feasible ones, and stressed the importance of engaging all stakeholders to address these concerns. The Ministry of Commerce would regularly seek input from chambers on the matter.
Additionally, the PM instructed the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to enhance its operations, involve the business community in consultations, digitize service delivery, and streamline land records for greater efficiency.
