Karachi, August 16, 2024 – In a move aimed at alleviating the pressures faced by businesses amid widespread internet issues, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has announced an extension for the filing of sales tax returns for July 2024.
The new deadline, previously set for August 18, 2024, has been pushed to August 23, 2024, according to a notification issued today by the FBR.
The decision comes as a response to ongoing internet disruptions that have significantly hampered digital access and efficiency across Pakistan. The IT sector, already grappling with connectivity challenges, has reported substantial delays and difficulties, making timely compliance with tax regulations a formidable challenge for many businesses.
The FBR’s extension aims to address these issues by granting additional time for taxpayers to complete their online submissions. As the filing process for sales tax returns is exclusively managed through digital platforms, the slow internet speeds have created a substantial barrier, impacting numerous businesses’ ability to meet the original deadline.
Tax experts have reacted positively to the FBR’s decision. They argue that the extension is a critical step in ensuring that businesses are not unduly penalized for circumstances beyond their control. “The FBR’s decision to extend the deadline is a commendable move that will undoubtedly help in restoring the confidence of taxpayers,” said Ahmed Khan, a leading tax consultant. “This gesture acknowledges the real-world challenges faced by businesses and demonstrates the FBR’s commitment to supporting the economic environment.”
The extension is expected to ease the burden on businesses struggling to adapt to the current digital constraints. With additional time, companies will be better positioned to navigate the complexities of the online filing system without the added pressure of meeting the original deadline.
This extension also highlights the ongoing need for robust infrastructure improvements to support the digital economy. As Pakistan continues to transition to more technology-driven processes, the reliability of internet services remains a crucial factor in the efficiency of administrative operations.
The FBR’s proactive approach in adjusting deadlines to accommodate technical difficulties underscores a broader commitment to fostering a more manageable and supportive tax compliance environment. As businesses prepare for the extended deadline, the focus now shifts to ensuring that necessary infrastructure improvements are prioritized to prevent similar issues in the future.
The new deadline for the submission of July 2024 sales tax returns is now August 23, 2024, providing a much-needed respite for taxpayers navigating the current digital landscape.