Karachi, July 22, 2025 – The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has shared essential concepts of sales tax laws, especially in light of the latest reforms introduced under the Finance Act, 2025.
This initiative aims to help individuals and businesses develop a clearer understanding of their obligations under the law.
So, what exactly is sales tax, and how does it work in Pakistan?
Let’s break it down: sales tax is a government-imposed levy on the sale, supply, and import of goods in Pakistan. Governed under the Sales Tax Act, 1990, and supported by the Islamabad Capital Territory (Tax on Services) Ordinance, 2001, this tax plays a crucial role in the country’s revenue system. If you’re a business owner or someone involved in trading, understanding sales tax isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.
Why Understanding Sales Tax Matters
The FBR stresses that before registering or filing a sales tax return, one should grasp the basic sales tax framework. Why? Because having this foundational knowledge ensures compliance and avoids costly mistakes.
For example, input tax refers to the sales tax you pay when buying taxable goods or services. This includes taxes paid on imported items. On the other hand, output tax is the amount you charge your customers when you sell taxable goods or services.
The FBR emphasizes that businesses must calculate the difference between their input and output taxes to determine the final amount payable or refundable.
What’s Taxable and What’s Not?
Here’s the big picture: sales tax applies to most goods in Pakistan—unless specifically exempted under Section 13 and the Sixth Schedule of the Sales Tax Act. Exemptions can also be granted through official notifications known as SROs. Want to know if a product is exempt? Check the Sixth Schedule or consult with a registered tax advisor.
Imports are another key area. Nearly all imported goods are subject to sales tax upon entry into Pakistan. Again, exemptions apply only to certain goods as outlined in the law.
With these simplified guidelines, the FBR aims to reduce confusion and make sales tax compliance more approachable. Whether you’re just starting a business or already registered, understanding these sales tax principles will make navigating Pakistan’s tax landscape much easier.