FBR Told by PM to Fast-Track Tax Directory, Expose Evaders

In a bold move aimed at ensuring transparency and expanding the tax net, the Prime Minister has directed the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to fast-track the compilation of the national taxpayer directory and publicly expose tax evaders. The decision comes as part of the government’s broader strategy to increase revenue collection, curb tax evasion, and strengthen economic stability.

The directive was issued during a high-level meeting chaired by the Prime Minister, where senior officials from the Finance Ministry and FBR were present. The PM emphasized the need for strict enforcement of tax laws and urged the authorities to improve efficiency in identifying and penalizing tax defaulters.

According to official sources, the taxpayer directory will provide detailed information about:

• Registered taxpayers across Pakistan

• Total taxes paid by individuals and businesses

• Outstanding tax liabilities

• List of suspected tax evaders

The PM instructed the FBR to make the directory publicly available online to ensure greater transparency and encourage voluntary compliance among taxpayers.

• Fast-tracking the preparation of the taxpayer directory

• Public disclosure of defaulters and non-filers

• Strict action against high-profile tax evaders

• Enhanced digital monitoring through data integration

• Incentives for compliant taxpayers to encourage broader participation

Speaking after the meeting, Federal Minister for Finance [Insert Name] said:

“The taxpayer directory will act as a deterrent for tax evaders and ensure fairness in the system. Our goal is to create a transparent and efficient taxation framework that supports economic growth.”

An FBR spokesperson added that the board is working on integrating advanced data analytics and digital monitoring tools to track financial transactions, identify discrepancies, and automate the detection of non-filers.

Experts believe that making the taxpayer directory public could significantly improve tax compliance and help broaden the tax base in Pakistan. Potential impacts include:

• Increased voluntary tax payments by individuals and businesses

• Reduction in tax evasion through stricter oversight

• Improved government revenues for development projects

• Greater transparency in financial reporting and accountability

• Restoration of public trust in the taxation system

While the move has been widely appreciated, experts highlight several challenges that may arise:

• Data accuracy in compiling taxpayer details

• Cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive financial information

• Resistance from influential defaulters

• Ensuring fair categorization between evaders and genuine low-income non-filers

The government has assured that strict data protection protocols will be enforced and special monitoring teams will oversee the process.

The announcement has sparked mixed reactions among citizens. While many view it as a positive step toward accountability, some business groups have expressed concerns about data privacy and the possible misuse of information.

Tax experts, however, argue that public tax disclosures are essential for improving fiscal discipline and building a stronger economy.

The Prime Minister’s directive to fast-track the taxpayer directory and expose tax evaders marks a decisive step towards improving Pakistan’s taxation framework. If implemented effectively, this initiative could boost government revenues, promote financial transparency, and strengthen economic stability.

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