KARACHI: Finance Minister Asad Umar on Monday reviewed the revenue collection progress and ongoing drive of broadening of tax base at a meeting with senior officials of Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).
The meeting was attended by Member Inland Revenue Operations Ms. Seema Shakil, Member Customs Operations Agha Jawad, Chief Commissioners Inland Revenue and Chief Collectors of Pakistan Customs.
Ms. Seema Shakil updated the finance minister about revenue collection and performance of Inland Revenue besides giving details of ongoing campaign for broadening of tax base.
She apprised the finance minister about the difficulties in the way of taking harsh action against tax evaders.
The sources said that the finance minister issued directives for taking harsh measures against tax evaders including high profile cases.
He also assured all logistic support to FBR officials in taking actions against influential persons.
Member Customs Operations Agha Jawad also briefed the finance minister about the working of customs clearance. The member said that transparency had been ensured in the clearance process in order to facilitate genuine taxpayers.
The member pointed out high volume of smuggled betel nut.
The finance minister directed to evolve a tariff mechanism for betel nut.
The finance minister directed both the wings of FBR to ensure facilitation of taxpayers and focus on tax evaders.
Is there any directives from the FM for taking harsh measures against tax persons. They all are living beyond there means and every body knows that from top to bottom . This is a big avenue to increase the tax base and tax collection