Islamabad, May 17, 2024 – The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) took proactive steps on Friday by convening a crucial meeting with representatives from various trade unions across the country to address concerns raised by the trade and business community regarding the implementation of the Tajir Dost Scheme.
The meeting, chaired by Chief Coordinator of the Tajir Dost Scheme, Naeem Mir, and attended by other senior officials, aimed to foster a collaborative approach towards ensuring the success of the scheme, as per a press release issued by the FBR.
Representatives from trade unions articulated the need for clear guidelines on taxation for newly registered traders under the Tajir Dost Scheme. They highlighted that ambiguity surrounding the taxation regime was leading to reluctance among retailers to register, potentially impeding the scheme’s effectiveness.
Additionally, concerns were raised about the absence of facilitation, tax exemptions, or incentives to incentivize retailers to register under the scheme.
In response, FBR officials and the Chief Coordinator of the Tajir Dost Scheme expressed willingness to address the trade community’s reservations and recommendations. They urged the representatives to submit a unified proposal within a week regarding the registration and taxation of traders under the scheme.
Furthermore, FBR reiterated its commitment to collaborate with all stakeholders involved in the registration drive to enhance tax compliance nationwide. The FBR also called upon the trade unions to cooperate with the Government in facilitating the registration of traders under the Tajir Dost Scheme.
This meeting underscores the FBR’s commitment to promoting a tax culture across the country for sustained economic growth. It reflects the FBR’s dedication to fostering an environment conducive to trade and commerce, ensuring transparency and fairness in taxation policies.
The engagement between the FBR and trade unions marks a positive step towards addressing the concerns of the business community and streamlining the implementation of the Tajir Dost Scheme. By fostering collaboration and dialogue, the FBR aims to overcome challenges and create a more conducive environment for traders, ultimately contributing to Pakistan’s economic development.