Islamabad, October 30, 2025 – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has ordered a forensic audit of Pakistan Revenue Automation Limited (PRAL) through an international consultancy firm after being briefed on a massive sales tax fraud that reportedly occurred due to outdated digital systems and poor monitoring.
Chairing a high-level meeting on Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) reforms, the Prime Minister expressed deep concern and dissatisfaction over the fraudulent activity, which officials said began in 2018–19. He directed authorities to identify all companies, institutions, and individuals involved and to submit a comprehensive report within three weeks. The Prime Minister also ordered strict legal action against anyone found responsible.
During the session, FBR officials briefed the Prime Minister on the progress of ongoing reforms within PRAL, emphasizing that new security systems have been deployed — including an Audit Vault, Database Protection Wall, and Security Operations Centre — to strengthen oversight and prevent future manipulation.
Officials added that the updated digital infrastructure now automatically records a user’s IP address during any data modification, thereby minimizing risks of tax evasion and cyber-related fraud.
A fact-finding committee earlier concluded that the fraud stemmed from PRAL’s obsolete technology, lack of real-time monitoring, and weak database protection. However, the FBR has since launched extensive reforms to modernize its operations.
Prime Minister Shehbaz commended the FBR for its recent recognition at the World Bank’s Annual Conference in Washington, where Pakistan’s tax reform efforts were positively highlighted.