FBR chief rules out reducing sales tax rate to single digit

FBR chief rules out reducing sales tax rate to single digit

KARACHI: Nausheen Javaid Amjad, Chairperson of Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has ruled out reducing sales tax rate to single digit and said such move would bankrupt the economy of the country.

However, she hinted at reducing the further sales tax rate in the upcoming budget 2020/2021.

A press release issued by Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) on Friday quoted FBR chairperson as saying. She made these comments while a meeting with the office bearers of the apex trade body.

The chairperson said that refunds are fully automated under FASTER; amendment in Annexures-F and H should be identified by the exporters for FBR consideration; tax on machinery would be abolished.

The FBR chairperson further highlighted proposals to be incorporated in the Finance Bill 2020 which included that tax on distributors would be uniformed; tax rates including minimum tax rates would be reviewed for reduction; withholding tax paid would be appeared on IRIS w.e.f June, 2020; Exemption Certificate Law would be amended and rationalized; option would be given to remain in presumptive tax regime or opt for normal tax regime ; greenfield industry issue would be resolved in consultation with Engineering Development Board (EDB).Regarding CNIC condition the Chairperson, FBR said that agreement has been made with the traders and cannot be reversed.

In response to the customs issues raised by the FPCCI, she replied regulatory duty on tyre would be considered to abolish in the next budget.

She proposed to hold second round of the meeting to discuss the FPCCI Proposals in detail for consideration and incorporation in the forthcoming Federal Budget 2020-21.