THE government’s sustained efforts to strengthen tax collection and reform the revenue system are both timely and commendable.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has repeatedly emphasized the importance of broadening the tax base and his latest directives to the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) reflect a consistent and serious commitment to this goal.
At a critical juncture for Pakistan’s economy, such measures are essential to reduce reliance on external borrowing and to establish a fairer, more sustainable fiscal framework.
Chairing a meeting on Tuesday, the Prime Minister directed the FBR to take strict action against individuals and sectors involved in tax evasion, and stressed that all who are capable of paying taxes must be brought into the tax net.
He also ordered strict accountability for officials who facilitate tax evasion and urged faster implementation of digital monitoring in key sectors like cement.
Notably, the successful rollout of the Track and Trace System in cement plants has already led to a significant increase in tax revenues—an encouraging sign that reform is beginning to bear fruit.
At a meeting of the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Finance, FBR Chairman Rashid Mahmood Langrial disclosed that tax evasion in the tobacco and poultry sectors alone has reached nearly Rs 400 billion.
This alarming figure underscores the need for urgent and decisive action.
Similar leakages exist in other areas of the economy, and closing these loopholes is critical for strengthening public finances.
While the FBR, under the guidance of the Prime Minister, is making measurable progress, public cooperation is equally vital.
Citizens must fulfill their tax obligations honestly for meaningful and lasting change to take root.
Ending reliance on external loans and finally breaking the “begging bowl” requires a collective national effort.
At the same time, attention must be paid to the salaried class, which continues to shoulder a disproportionate tax burden.
The upcoming budget should provide them relief and ensure their tax filing process is simplified.
Making compliance easier and fairer for this segment will improve both morale and overall revenue collection.
With consistency, transparency and a shared sense of duty, we can build a stronger and more independent economic future.
