Islamabad, May 22, 2025 – Parliamentary Secretary Sheikh Saad Waseem said on Wednesday that the government is prioritizing tax compliance and broadening the tax base instead of taking punitive actions like blocking mobile SIMs.
Speaking during the question hour in the National Assembly, Saad emphasized that effective and citizen-friendly policies are yielding positive results in the country’s revenue system.
He informed the House that since 2022, the government has successfully brought nearly 8 million individuals into the tax net through targeted reforms, digitalization, and awareness campaigns. Responding to a query raised by MNA Shazia Soomro, Saad acknowledged that while exact figures for reduced tax evasion are not currently available, indicators suggest a steady decline in non-compliance.
“The government is not looking to implement controversial or harsh measures like SIM blocking,” Saad explained. “Instead, our focus is on encouraging voluntary compliance, streamlining tax filing procedures, and integrating systems to make it easier for citizens to fulfill their obligations.”
In reply to another question by Khawaja Izhar, the parliamentary secretary disclosed that 458,342 individuals have recently been added to the tax net, while 276,000 people filed tax returns this year alone. From 2022 to 2025, the total number of taxpayers has increased by a remarkable 8 million, including 3.1 million new filers added just in the current year.
Saad Waseem reiterated the government’s dedication to creating a robust and transparent tax system that supports economic stability and sustainable development. He noted that increased tax collection not only strengthens the national economy but also enables the state to improve infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other public services.
The government’s approach underlines a shift from coercive tactics to a more collaborative and technology-driven framework, with Saad highlighting the importance of public trust and participation in building a fairer fiscal environment.
Saad urged citizens to actively participate in building a tax-compliant society, ensuring better governance, national progress, and improved social welfare systems.