Karachi, March 5, 2025 – The Karachi Tax Bar Association (KTBA) has urged the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to take immediate action by appointing a Commissioner Inland Revenue at Zone-II, Corporate Tax Office (CTO), Karachi, to facilitate the efficient processing and timely issuance of refunds.
In an official letter addressed to FBR Chairman Rashid Mahmood Langrial, KTBA referenced Notification No. 1977-IR-I/2024, dated July 30, 2024, which assigned the additional charge of Commissioner Inland Revenue (OPS) (Refunds) to oversee Zone-II, Corporate Tax Office Karachi. However, KTBA highlighted that the designated three-month tenure has now expired, effectively leaving the office vacant and creating a bureaucratic vacuum in tax administration.
KTBA stressed that the absence of a dedicated Commissioner at this pivotal position has led to substantial delays in taxpayer services. These disruptions include the issuance of exemption certificates, processing of refunds, and overall compliance-related procedures, causing mounting difficulties for both taxpayers and tax professionals. The prolonged inaction is exacerbating challenges in an already complex tax framework, further diminishing efficiency and transparency within the system.
Given the critical nature of this vacancy, KTBA has emphasized the necessity of an immediate appointment to prevent further administrative bottlenecks. The association has pointed out that businesses and individuals relying on timely tax refunds and exemptions are experiencing unnecessary financial and operational hurdles due to the leadership void at the CTO.
KTBA underscored that FBR must recognize the gravity of the situation and swiftly appoint a qualified and experienced Commissioner to streamline processes and uphold the integrity of the tax system. A delay in this crucial appointment not only impacts revenue collection but also undermines taxpayer confidence in the government’s ability to ensure a functional and responsive taxation system.
Furthermore, KTBA reiterated that a fully functional tax office is imperative for fostering compliance, reducing inefficiencies, and facilitating smoother business operations. The association firmly believes that appointing a Commissioner Inland Revenue for Zone-II, Corporate Tax Office Karachi, will reinstate confidence among taxpayers and reinforce FBR’s commitment to effective tax administration.
KTBA remains committed to advocating for the interests of taxpayers and tax professionals and urges FBR to address this pressing concern without further delay. The association firmly believes that a swift resolution to this issue will enhance the efficiency of the tax machinery and contribute to a more transparent and business-friendly environment.