World Bank assures Pakistan of support in tax collection

ISLAMABAD: Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) Chairman Rashid Mehmood Langrial announced on Tuesday that the World Bank has reaffirmed its collaboration with the FBR to implement transformative reforms aimed at enhancing Pakistan’s tax collection system. 

A meeting at FBR headquarters brought together senior World Bank officials, including Country Director Najy Benhassine, Lead Country Economist Tobias Akhtar Haque, Public Sector Specialist Irum Touqeer, and Senior Operations Officer Eva Liselotte Lescrauwaet. 

Read this too: ECC approves key reforms to improve FBR operations

During the session, FBR Chairman Langrial delivered a comprehensive briefing on the FBR’s transformation plan, which focuses on improving revenue collection and tax compliance across the country. 

WB Country Director Najy Benhassine voiced support for the initiative, stating, “We are aligned with the FBR’s vision and will continue working closely to achieve the shared objective of sustainable revenue growth for Pakistan.” 

The discussions centered on aligning initiatives under the “Pakistan Raises Revenue Project” with the FBR’s broader transformation agenda. 

Chairman Langrial outlined the government’s vision for tax system reform, emphasizing the dual objectives of increasing revenue and simplifying compliance for taxpayers. He highlighted key focus areas such as digitalization, human resource development, anti-smuggling measures, and comprehensive tax administration reforms. 

More to Read: FBR briefs IMF on revenue shortfall, unveils strategy for Rs230 billion gap

“These initiatives are designed to address gaps in tax compliance while modernizing the country’s revenue collection mechanisms,” Langrial noted. 

A key highlight of the meeting was the Chairman’s request for additional World Bank support to establish digital enforcement stations, digitize supply chains, and conduct feasibility studies for proposed reforms. He emphasized that these measures are vital for streamlining tax operations and ensuring greater transparency. 

The World Bank team reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Pakistan’s revenue mobilization efforts through the “Pakistan Raises Revenue Project”. 

Chairman Langrial further elaborated on the transformation plan, describing it as a cornerstone of the government’s strategy to modernize Pakistan’s tax infrastructure, combat tax evasion, and improve service delivery. “By leveraging digital tools and strengthening institutional capacity, the FBR aims to foster a more efficient and equitable tax system,” he added. 

Both parties expressed optimism about the partnership. The World Bank team reiterated its support for the planned activities, highlighting the importance of long-term collaboration to ensure the success of reform initiatives.