FBR officials outlined key features of the transformation plan, which focuses on leveraging technology, rewarding high-performing officers, and tightening enforcement of tax laws
By Asghar Ali Mubarak
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the urgent need to digitize the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and strengthen its enforcement mechanisms during a meeting on Friday aimed at reviewing the FBR’s operations. The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of modernizing the FBR as a critical step towards implementing comprehensive economic reforms in Pakistan.
Chairing the meeting, PM Shehbaz referred to the FBR as the “backbone of the national economy” and praised the transformation plan aimed at improving tax collection. He underscored that enhanced revenue would allow the government to improve service delivery and invest more effectively in the social sector, ultimately benefiting citizens. According to a press release from the Prime Minister’s Office, Shehbaz Sharif directed the relevant authorities to devise a comprehensive strategy to improve the FBR’s enforcement mechanisms.
The Prime Minister also called for broad consultations with leading taxpayers and stakeholders on the FBR’s transformation plan to ensure it aligns with the needs of both the government and the private sector. He stressed that promoting the private sector is essential for creating a robust economy. In addition, he urged the need for prompt approval of amendments in collaboration with relevant departments to ensure effective implementation of the FBR’s new initiatives. To ensure transparency and accountability, the Prime Minister called for a third-party audit of FBR projects. He also ordered an expedited crackdown on smuggling, which he identified as a significant challenge to economic stability.
During the briefing, FBR officials outlined key features of the transformation plan, which focuses on leveraging technology, rewarding high-performing officers, and tightening enforcement of tax laws. The program, which was developed by FBR officers and experts over a 40-day period, aims to increase tax receipts while ensuring that economic growth is not impeded. It also includes measures to facilitate honest taxpayers while imposing stricter penalties on those who evade taxes.
The FBR’s new plan includes a variety of initiatives, such as using technology to increase transparency, providing incentives for officers who exceed tax collection targets, and strengthening enforcement against tax fraud and evasion. These measures, the Prime Minister was informed, will be implemented after consulting with compliant taxpayers to ensure fairness. One of the key aspects of the transformation plan is the targeted posting of efficient and capable officers in key regions, particularly in Karachi, which contributes 32% of Pakistan’s total tax receipts.
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