In a continued effort to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has issued an updated list of duty and tax-exempt items crucial for the prevention and control of the virus.
On Thursday, the FBR released three statutory regulatory orders (SROs) — SRO 315(I)/2020, SRO 316(I)/2020, and SRO 317(I)/2020 — amending the exemptions initially established on March 20, 2020.
These amendments aim to ensure the seamless importation of vital medical equipment and supplies necessary for addressing the ongoing health crisis. The revised list now includes 61 essential items, each carefully selected to bolster the nation’s capacity to manage and mitigate the impacts of COVID-19.
The items covered under these exemptions encompass a wide range of medical necessities, including but not limited to personal protective equipment (PPE) such as masks, gloves, and face shields, ventilators, diagnostic kits, and various other medical devices and consumables. By removing the duty and tax burdens on these imports, the government seeks to facilitate the swift availability and affordability of these critical supplies.
According to the FBR, these regulatory updates are part of a broader strategy to support the healthcare sector’s response to the pandemic. An official from the FBR emphasized the importance of these measures, stating, “The amendments are designed to expedite the importation process of essential medical equipment, thereby ensuring that healthcare providers across the country have the resources they need to effectively combat COVID-19. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to protecting public health and supporting frontline workers.”
The issuance of the SROs has been met with approval from various stakeholders in the healthcare sector. Dr. Ayesha Khan, a prominent epidemiologist, highlighted the significance of these exemptions, noting, “The removal of duties and taxes on these critical items is a crucial step in ensuring that our healthcare system is well-equipped to handle the challenges posed by the pandemic. It also helps in reducing the financial strain on hospitals and healthcare providers, allowing them to focus more on patient care rather than procurement hurdles.”
As Pakistan continues to navigate the complexities of the COVID-19 pandemic, the FBR’s proactive measures serve as a vital component of the national response strategy. The updated exemptions are expected to enhance the availability of medical supplies, thereby contributing to more effective prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of the virus.
The FBR has reiterated its commitment to monitoring the situation closely and making necessary adjustments to the regulatory framework to address evolving needs. This dynamic approach underscores the government’s dedication to ensuring public health and safety during these unprecedented times.