Islamabad, May 13, 2025 – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed strict action against officials of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) found guilty of facilitating tax evasion.
Chairing a high-level meeting to review progress on tax reforms, revenue generation, and broadening the tax base, Shehbaz emphasized that no compromise would be tolerated when it comes to ensuring financial transparency and accountability.
The prime minister stated that individuals and sectors capable of paying taxes must be brought within the tax net. He issued firm instructions for immediate accountability of FBR officers who assist tax evaders, calling such actions a betrayal of national interest. “Tax evasion directly impacts our national economy and deprives the government of vital revenue needed for development,” Shehbaz said, according to a statement from the PM Office.
Commending the performance of the economic team, Shehbaz praised their efforts in meeting FBR’s revenue targets. He reiterated that expanding the tax net is a top government priority, aimed at reducing the financial burden on the common man. By increasing the number of tax filers, the government hopes to lower individual tax rates and promote a fairer system.
The prime minister instructed authorities to complete the digital monitoring of the cement sector by next month. He also emphasized intensifying efforts in collaboration with provinces to raise tax revenue from the tobacco industry. Shehbaz directed the FBR to expedite the resolution of pending tax cases to ensure the swift recovery of state funds.
“Thanks to the grace of Allah, the national economy is stable and showing signs of growth,” Shehbaz remarked. “We must work together with renewed commitment to take the country forward.”
The briefing revealed that the implementation of the Track and Trace System at cement plants has significantly boosted tax revenue. A similar system in the sugar sector has led to a 35% increase in tax collection from November 2024 to April 2025. It was also noted that the FBR is on track to achieve a tax-to-GDP ratio of 10.6% due to ongoing structural reforms.
The meeting was attended by key federal ministers, the FBR chairman, and other senior officials.