PM Shehbaz calls for strict action against late tax payments, fraud

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved the Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) new homegrown transformation plan, aiming to enhance tax enforcement and boost economic reforms.

The plan includes third-party audits of FBR projects and strict penalties for taxpayers involved in fraud or those failing to pay their taxes on time.

In a meeting to review the FBR’s progress, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of digitising the tax system and improving enforcement mechanisms.

He directed authorities to create a comprehensive strategy to improve the FBR’s efficiency, consulting key stakeholders and taxpayers. This will ensure the smooth implementation of the reforms, which aim to strengthen the country’s economy.

The plan includes using technology to enhance tax collection, rewarding high-performing FBR officers, and tightening the enforcement of tax laws. It also introduces measures to curb tax evasion by imposing restrictions on financial transactions for non-compliant taxpayers.

Shehbaz Sharif called the FBR the backbone of Pakistan’s economy, emphasising the need for higher tax revenues to support public services and social development.

He also highlighted the government’s priority of promoting the private sector, which he described as essential for a strong economy.

To combat smuggling, the plan includes new customs check posts in collaboration with the Frontier Works Organisation (FWO) and a camera-monitored system to oversee customs officers.

In the first phase, Karachi’s large taxpayer unit, contributing 32 per cent of tax revenue, will see the deployment of efficient officers, supported by auditors and experts.

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