ISLAMABAD: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) on Monday announced that it will be collecting duty and taxes on April 29th and 30th, 2023, to cover up time lost due to Eid holidays.
The announcement comes after the government declared five holidays for Eid-ul-Fitr starting from April 21st, 2023.
READ MORE: SRB issues updated sales tax rate of 19.5% on telecom services
During the holy month of Ramazan, offices across the country are observing reduced working hours. Combined with the closure of public offices during Eid holidays, this has created a challenge for businesses to deposit their duty and taxes in the government exchequer.
To address this issue, the FBR has decided to keep all tax offices open and observe extended working hours until 6:30 PM on April 29th and 30th, 2023. The move aims to facilitate taxpayers in payment of duty and taxes.
READ MORE: FBR officers face penal action for failure in filing asset declaration
The FBR has advised Chief Commissioners of Inland Revenue to establish liaison with State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) and authorized branches of National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) to ensure the transfer of tax collected by these branches to the respective branches of the SBP on the same date. This will account for the same towards collection for the month of April 2023.
It is important to note that only officers and officials involved in taxpayers’ facilitation, return filing, collection, and recovery of tax will observe extended working hours. This will ensure that taxpayers receive the necessary support and assistance to fulfill their obligations during this time.
READ MORE: President Alvi orders genuine tax refund cannot be refused after late filing claim
The FBR’s decision is commendable as it recognizes the importance of tax collection for the economy and provides much-needed relief to taxpayers during the holiday season. It is also an example of how government agencies can work to facilitate taxpayers and promote compliance.
Overall, the FBR’s decision to keep tax offices open and observe extended working hours during Eid holidays is a positive step towards ensuring that businesses can fulfill their tax obligations without any undue stress or inconvenience. This will help to maintain a steady stream of revenue for the government and contribute to the country’s economic growth.
READ MORE: Pakistan sees surge in illicit cigarette sales after massive tax hike, says Philip Morris
