Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed that improving Pakistan’s tax system is essential to boosting national income and easing the tax burden on ordinary citizens. He made these remarks while chairing a review meeting on Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) reforms in Islamabad on Tuesday.
The meeting was attended by key government officials, including Ministers Attaullah Tarar, Ahsan Iqbal, Azam Nazeer Tarar, and the FBR Chairman. Officials gave a briefing on the ongoing digital transformation and structural reforms in the tax system. The Prime Minister appreciated the efforts of the officers involved and directed them to present a detailed report next week with achievable targets and clear deadlines.
PM Shehbaz noted that the digitization of FBR operations has helped meet revenue goals more efficiently. However, he stressed the need to build a sustainable, long-term system that is transparent and citizen-friendly. He also called for stronger enforcement mechanisms to address the challenges of Pakistan’s large informal economy.
The Prime Minister instructed the FBR to restructure its digital wing with a fixed timeline and ensure that reforms are designed to support taxpayers, businesses, and the trader community. He emphasized that tax collection should be made easier, not harder, and fairness must remain at the core of the system.
PM Shehbaz reiterated that a fair and efficient tax system is vital for economic stability. By reducing the burden on honest taxpayers and increasing revenue through better compliance, the government hopes to create a more just and prosperous future for all Pakistanis.