In a bid to acknowledge and reward the contribution of top taxpayers towards the economic development of the country, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative – the Honor Card for Top Taxpayers.
The announcement came during a ceremony where excellence awards were distributed to compliant taxpayers and leading exporters.
Prime Minister Sharif emphasized the significance of recognizing and appreciating those individuals and entities who diligently fulfill their tax obligations and contribute significantly to the nation’s economy. He stated that recipients of these awards would not only receive recognition but also practical benefits such as blue passports and the prestigious Pakistan Honour Card.
The Honor Card is not merely a token of appreciation but a symbol of the nation’s gratitude towards those who play a pivotal role in economic development. Additionally, individuals who excel in every category of taxation will be granted the esteemed status of honorary ambassadors for Pakistan, further highlighting their importance in the country’s economic landscape.
During his address at the ceremony, Prime Minister Sharif reiterated the government’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for economic growth by eliminating bureaucratic hurdles, inefficiencies, and delays. He emphasized that a robust economy not only strengthens the nation internally but also amplifies its voice globally.
Furthermore, Prime Minister Sharif outlined several initiatives aimed at revamping the economic landscape of Pakistan. These initiatives include restructuring key sectors such as electricity and oil, appointing competent tribunal heads to expedite pending cases, and implementing innovative tax policies to broaden the tax base while reducing tax slabs.
Finance Minister Aurangzeb echoed the Prime Minister’s sentiments, highlighting the pivotal role of direct taxes and exports in driving growth and development. He emphasized the need for a paradigm shift towards export-led growth and urged the private sector to take the lead in driving economic progress.
The Finance Minister also underscored the importance of digitization in the tax sector to curb leakages and streamline the tax administration process. He assured continuous support from the government in providing a conducive policy framework and fostering skill development in the information technology sector.
The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) chairman commended the government’s efforts in acknowledging compliant taxpayers and exporters. He reiterated the government’s commitment to improving the FBR’s efficiency through digital tax administration and expediting the clearance of pending refunds for exporters.
Overall, the introduction of the Honor Card for Top Taxpayers marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s efforts to incentivize tax compliance and promote economic growth. By recognizing and rewarding the contributions of taxpayers, the government aims to foster a culture of transparency, accountability, and economic prosperity for the nation as a whole.
