ISLAMABAD, Apr 18 (Alliance News): Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif on Thursday said that the digitization of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has begun, but acknowledged that it is a long journey requiring consistent effort to overcome obstacles and ensure sustainable progress.
During his visit to FBR headquarters, the Prime Minister emphasized that digital reforms and consistent hard work are essential to secure a bright future for Pakistan.
He said that pending tax-related court cases involving trillions of rupees need urgent resolution.
“The Sindh and Lahore High Courts have already contributed billions to the national exchequer through recent decisions,” he noted, adding that resolving similar cases could yield significant revenue.
Highlighting the importance of economic self-reliance, PM Shahbaz stressed that increasing income is vital to reducing dependence on external debt.
“If we do not raise revenues, our debt burden will grow, and we will remain dependent on the IMF,” he warned.
During the visit, the Prime Minister was briefed on various reforms, including the integration of NADRA, banking, and other data sources into a centralized decision-making system.
He was informed that FBR is shifting to international standards to broaden the tax base and make data-driven decisions.
The FBR has completed preparations for launching digital invoices, a key step toward full digitization.
Additionally, the Prime Minister inaugurated an automated performance management system to monitor FBR officers’ work, promoting transparency and accountability through a reward-and-penalty mechanism.
Officials also briefed the Prime Minister on FBR’s newly established Delivery Unit, which he toured alongside officers.
PM Shahbaz expressed satisfaction with the reforms and called FBR officials the nation’s valuable asset, encouraging them to continue working with dedication.
