Karachi, January 21, 2025 – The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has announced January 31, 2025, as the deadline for submitting proposals for the federal budget 2025-26.
This initiative underscores the FBR’s commitment to fostering collaboration with stakeholders in shaping the nation’s fiscal policies.
The FBR has urged stakeholders, including business associations, trade bodies, and tax professionals, to provide clear, actionable, and implementable suggestions. These proposals may include additions, deletions, or amendments to existing tax laws, aiming to enhance revenue collection and streamline the taxation system.
Focus on Comprehensive Budget Measures
As part of its efforts to formulate an inclusive and impactful federal budget, the FBR is intensifying its drive to expand the tax base and boost compliance. Sources within the organization have revealed that the budget is likely to be announced in the first or second week of June 2025. To ensure the budget addresses pressing economic challenges, the FBR is actively engaging stakeholders to contribute tax proposals targeting revenue generation and economic sustainability.
Key Focus Areas for Budget 2025-26
In its directives, the FBR has outlined several key areas to guide stakeholders in formulating their proposals:
1. Expanding the Tax Base: A major priority is to bring more individuals and businesses into the tax net, ensuring equitable contribution to national revenue.
2. Integrating the Value Chain: Stakeholders are encouraged to suggest policies to bring the entire value chain of businesses under the General Sales Tax (GST) regime, promoting uniformity and compliance.
3. Promoting Progressive Taxation: The FBR aims to ensure wealthier segments of society contribute a fair share to revenue by enhancing progressive taxation measures.
4. Phasing Out Concessions and Exemptions: Gradual elimination of unnecessary tax concessions and exemptions is planned to create a level playing field for all taxpayers.
5. Facilitating Taxpayers: Simplification of tax laws and removal of redundant provisions are key priorities to improve the ease of doing business and build a taxpayer-friendly environment.
6. Reducing Tax Arbitrage and Anomalies: Proposals addressing tax inefficiencies, distortions, and procedural loopholes are being sought to ensure neutrality and economic efficiency.
This proactive and inclusive approach reflects the FBR’s commitment to strengthening Pakistan’s tax system, mobilizing resources, and fostering sustainable economic growth. By actively involving stakeholders, the FBR aims to create a budget that addresses systemic challenges while promoting trust and collaboration in the taxation framework.