ISLAMABAD: Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) Chairman Rashid Mahmood Langrial, addressing a press conference here today, outlined multiple reforms aimed at improving the FBR’s operations.
He said that these reforms are designed to enhance transparency within the FBR and ensure accountability across all levels. He said that the Board is aiming to prevent the misuse of power while ensuring enforcement.
“We will not allow misuse of powers anywhere,” he said, adding that the doors of the FBR remain open to all taxpayers, aiming to foster a more inclusive and cooperative environment.
Langrial said that there is a need for a shift towards honesty and integrity within the organisation. “We want to promote a culture of honesty in the FBR,” he said. However, he added that any instances of tax fraud will be met with strict legal action.
He reported significant progress in tax revenue collection over the past year. “Last year, we increased tax revenues by improving the compliance rate. A total of Rs 105 billion were collected from enforcement actions last year, which increased to Rs 865 billion this year,” he said.
Langrial also noted that the FBR has taken measures to address internal challenges, adding that individuals with questionable reputations have been removed from positions. Furthermore, officers who performed well saw salary increases, while those with negative reputations were not promoted.
The FBR’s efforts have garnered praise internationally, the chairman told media. He also talked about the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) acknowledgment of Pakistan’s expanding tax net.
In terms of overall revenue growth, Langrial pointed out that the outgoing fiscal year marked the largest increase in FBR revenue in the past decade. He said that the FBR’s initiatives have led to a change in public behavior towards tax compliance as well, and have “changed people’s behavior”.
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