Finance minister meets ICAP delegation
Muhammad Aurangzeb has assured chartered accountants that the government will introduce facilitative tax measures in the upcoming Budget 2026-27.
The finance minister held a meeting at the Finance Division with a delegation from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan (ICAP).
During the meeting, Aurangzeb emphasized the importance of continuous engagement with professional bodies and industry stakeholders to ensure economic and taxation policies remain practical and aligned with the country’s reform agenda.
Government pursuing tax administration reforms
The finance minister highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to modernize the tax administration system through reforms focused on people, processes and technology.
He said the reforms aim to simplify procedures, improve transparency, reduce unnecessary human intervention and facilitate taxpayers.
Aurangzeb also highlighted the operationalization of the Tax Policy Office under the Finance Division, describing it as a significant institutional reform to strengthen tax policy formulation and coordination between policy and administration.
Technology and AI improving tax compliance
The meeting also discussed the growing role of technology and digital systems in improving tax compliance and revenue administration.
The finance minister said AI-led production monitoring and technology-based oversight mechanisms introduced in different sectors are helping improve documentation, strengthen compliance and reduce leakages in the system.
According to officials, the government is focusing on expanding digitization and automation to make the tax system more efficient and business-friendly.
ICAP presents budget proposals
The ICAP delegation presented various proposals related to documentation, group taxation structures, export-oriented services and harmonization of tax treatment across sectors.
Discussions also covered measures aimed at improving competitiveness, facilitating investment, enhancing ease of doing business and broadening the tax base.
Aurangzeb acknowledged the recommendations and assured the delegation that the proposals would be carefully reviewed during the budget formulation process.
Government reiterates commitment to transparent tax system
The finance minister reiterated the government’s commitment to building a transparent, technology-driven and facilitative tax system that supports economic growth and improves governance.
The ICAP delegation was led by Samiullah Siddiqui and included Jehanzaib Amin, Ahmed Raza Mir and Zeeshan Ijaz.