Islamabad, January 23, 2026 – Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO) Zafar-ul-Haq Hijazi on Friday announced a major facilitation measure for taxpayers, stating that the process of registering complaints against the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and fixing appeals has been reduced to just one day.
Addressing the business community during his visit to the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI), the FTO said that complaints will now be reviewed and appeals scheduled within a single working day. He described the move as part of his broader agenda to provide maximum relief to businessmen and improve ease of doing business in Pakistan.
Zafar Hijazi assured traders that their grievances would be addressed on a priority basis, emphasizing that taxpayers deserve respect and full protection of their legal rights. He termed the business community the real backbone of the national economy, especially amid Pakistan’s ongoing economic challenges.
The FTO further stated that every possible step is being taken to safeguard taxpayers from unnecessary harassment. He added that upcoming budget proposals would focus on simplifying tax procedures and ensuring an end to undue pressure on tax filers.
RCCI President Usman Shauka welcomed the announcement and praised the Federal Tax Ombudsman’s role in the timely resolution of traders’ complaints. He said the institution has emerged as a vital forum for addressing long-standing issues faced by the business community.
Group Leader RCCI Sohail Altaf noted that confidence in the FTO office has increased significantly. He clarified that traders are willing to pay taxes but object to complicated procedures and harsh treatment by FBR. He stressed that as withholding agents, businessmen collect taxes without compensation and should be treated as partners in the tax collection process.
Traders present at the event expressed satisfaction and confidence in the FTO’s commitment to resolving their concerns.