PM Directs Hiring of Global Firms for FBR Reforms Validation

In a significant step toward the government’s reform objectives, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has instructed officials to engage internationally recognized organizations to conduct third-party assessments of the ongoing reforms at the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).

The directive occurred during a meeting led by the Prime Minister to assess the FBR’s reform progress, according to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO). The Prime Minister affirmed the government’s dedication to fostering a robust national economy through sustained improvements in national institutions.

“Institutional reforms are advancing swiftly across various sectors,” stated the Prime Minister.

“Recent encouraging economic indicators serve as clear evidence of the effectiveness of government strategies,” he added.

Crackdown on Tax Evasion Ordered

During the session, the Prime Minister received updates on the Faceless Customs Assessment System’s effectiveness and the advancement of reforms at Pakistan Revenue Automation Limited (PRAL).

PM Shehbaz conveyed his contentment with the Faceless Customs Assessment System’s recent accomplishments. He stated, “Initiatives such as the Faceless Customs Assessment System, designed to ensure transparency, are producing promising outcomes.”

Officials reported that the Faceless Customs Assessment System has boosted overall revenue and considerably decreased customs processing times.

The PM was briefed on the forthcoming launch of a simplified digital tax return system for all taxpayers.

“Efforts are actively underway to introduce the digital tax return system in Urdu and other regional languages for ease of use,” the PMO statement noted.

Attendees

Federal Minister for Law and Justice Azam Nazeer Tarar, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, Chairman FBR, alongside senior representatives from pertinent institutions, were present at the meeting.