New rules establish online bidder registration, a 72-hour bidding process, reserve price safeguards and electronic payment for the disposal of seized and confiscated goods.
ISLAMABAD, October 22, 2026: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has introduced an electronic auction mechanism for seized and confiscated goods, establishing a digital framework for bidder registration, bidding, payments and delivery.
The FBR issued SRO 1889(I)/2026, introducing Chapter XVII-C on electronic auctions under the rules governing the disposal of seized and confiscated goods.
Under the new mechanism, individuals holding a valid Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC) or National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) can register online as bidders through the Inland Revenue e-auction module. Registration requires a one-time payment of at least Rs25,000.
The system will list auctionable goods with descriptions, quantities, photographs, locations, reserve prices, applicable taxes and duties, inspection arrangements and auction terms.
A valuation committee comprising senior Inland Revenue officers will recommend reserve prices, taking into account factors such as depreciation, physical condition and remaining shelf life. Market prices, declared sales tax invoices and customs-assessed values will also be considered, where applicable.
Online bidding will remain open for 72 hours from receipt of the first bid. The highest bid must meet the reserve price, subject to specified exceptions requiring approval by the relevant Inland Revenue authorities.
Successful bidders must pay the full accepted bid amount, together with applicable taxes, duties, fees and charges, within the prescribed seven-day period. Goods will only be released after full payment is verified and an electronic release order is issued.
The rules also empower the Commissioner Inland Revenue to cancel or suspend auction proceedings, disqualify bidders and recover goods in cases involving fraud, misrepresentation or revenue loss.
Arms and ammunition, narcotics, counterfeit goods and other prohibited items will not ordinarily be auctioned except in accordance with directions issued by the FBR.
The electronic system is intended to provide a structured process for disposing of confiscated goods while maintaining digital records of transactions and deliveries.