KARACHI, August 2, 2025 – The Pakistan Chemicals & Dyes Merchants Association (PCDMA) has raised serious concerns over the Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) sudden decision to implement its new e-invoicing system from August 1, 2025.
The association warned that the abrupt rollout, without proper training or preparation, could create major difficulties for small and medium-sized merchants across the country.
PCDMA Chairman Salim Valimuhammad called the move “unjust and damaging,” especially for businesses lacking digital resources. He criticized the FBR for not involving stakeholders or organizing training sessions ahead of the e-invoicing enforcement.
“Many merchants, especially small traders, don’t have the IT setup, skilled staff, or even a stable electricity supply to meet these new requirements,” Valimuhammad said. “Expecting them to register and generate e-invoices instantly is unrealistic and unfair.”
He also pointed out that the FBR had issued the new policy (S.R.O. 1413(I)/2025) without any prior consultation. Many traders have requested a 60-day extension, but the FBR has not responded. Valimuhammad proposed a gradual approach—starting e-invoicing with large public limited companies, then reviewing performance before applying it to smaller merchants.
“If this system hasn’t worked smoothly even for large firms with turnovers above one billion rupees, how can it be applied to small merchants with fewer resources?” he questioned.
Despite the concerns, Valimuhammad expressed readiness to cooperate. “PCDMA is willing to help arrange training sessions. Even at this stage of life, I’m open to learning, but proper training must come first,” he said.
The PCDMA chairman urged the FBR to delay e-invoicing until proper awareness campaigns and training programs are conducted. He warned that the current rushed strategy could seriously harm business operations nationwide, especially among struggling small enterprises.