PM Directs FBR to Expedite Reforms Amid Growing Business Confidence

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed to further accelerate the implementation of FBR reforms. He was chairing a weekly review meeting in Islamabad on the ongoing reforms in the Federal Board of Revenue.

According to Radio Pakistan, the Prime Minister welcomed the growing confidence of the business community in the ongoing tax reforms. He directed the Chairman FBR and senior officers to stay in Karachi as well as Lahore for two days every month to strengthen their engagement with local businesses.

The Prime Minister emphasized the need for the FBR to accelerate enforcement measures to achieve the prescribed revenue target. He also appreciated the FBR’s action against illegal cigarette manufacturing factories in Chakwal and Swabi, highlighting the importance of strict measures against tax evasion.

Further directives were given for the timely completion of the proposed faceless system for Inland Revenue, with a complete rollout expected by 2027. The meeting was briefed that the first phase of the faceless Inland Revenue system is set to become operational from 1st October this year.

This AI and modern technology-based faceless system forms a crucial part of the FBR’s recent digitization reforms. It includes a National Faceless Audit Wing for the audit of tax returns and a Faceless Assessment Unit for assessments, aiming to enhance transparency and efficiency in tax processes.