Karachi, November 9, 2024 – The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) is now getting real-time data from 28 different departments to help find new taxpayers. This data-sharing partnership includes agreements with these organizations, allowing important information to be transferred directly to the FBR.
As part of its efforts to widen the tax base, the FBR has already registered over 1.35 million potential taxpayers. This step is aimed at increasing national tax collection by bringing in people and businesses that have not been paying taxes.
The FBR has shared third-party data from 46 sources with its offices across the country to help identify new taxpayers. As a result, more than 1.35 million people who were not previously registered have now been added to the tax system. This move is part of the government’s larger efforts to address Pakistan’s tax shortfall and improve compliance.
For the fiscal year 2024, the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) set a goal of registering 1 million new taxpayers. The FBR is working hard to meet this target through a variety of strategies, including the use of technology, data analysis, and stronger partnerships with other government agencies.
Key Measures for Taxpayer Registration
The FBR is using several innovative strategies to reach its goal:
1. Technology and Data Analysis: The FBR is using advanced technology and data analysis tools to track and manage the registration process. This helps them monitor progress and fix any issues quickly.
2. Collaboration with NADRA: The FBR is working with the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) to access financial transaction data in real-time, which helps identify taxpayers more efficiently.
3. Encouraging Compliance: The FBR has launched a campaign using SMS and WhatsApp messages to remind people to register and pay taxes. This initiative, called REMIT, encourages people who haven’t filed taxes to do so.
4. Public Awareness Campaigns: The FBR is running a media campaign to educate the public on the importance of tax registration. The campaign promotes the Malomaat portal, which allows citizens to file their tax returns.
5. Data Sharing: By partnering with 28 different departments, the FBR is able to get real-time data to help identify new taxpayers.
6. Improved Tax Tools: The FBR has updated the Malomaat portal and introduced new tools, like Tax Ray, to help officials identify and register taxpayers.
With these efforts, the FBR is modernizing Pakistan’s tax system and working to increase the country’s tax revenue. These initiatives are expected to play a key role in achieving the government’s financial goals.
