A meeting between the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and a delegation of traders is scheduled for tomorrow, where concerns regarding the Tajir Dost Tax scheme will be addressed. The business community has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the scheme, labeling its introduction as “completely inappropriate.”
Naeem Mir, the Chief Coordinator of the Tajir Dost scheme, has announced that the previous impasse between the traders and the FBR has been resolved. It has been agreed that both parties will come together in Islamabad to discuss the various issues surrounding the scheme.
Emphasizing the traders’ loyalty to Pakistan, Mir assured that they are committed to cooperating fully with the state. Additionally, he indicated that the traders’ suggestions will be taken into consideration during the discussions.
In recent events, traders across the country organized a nationwide strike, not only in opposition to the Tajir Dost scheme but also in protest against high electricity bills.
Launched in March 2024, the Tajir Dost Tax scheme is a voluntary initiative designed to bring unregistered businesses into Pakistan’s formal tax system. This effort aligns with the requirements set by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The scheme is projected to contribute Rs 400 to 500 billion annually to the national exchequer.
The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has called on all unregistered wholesalers, retailers, dealers, and shopkeepers to register under this scheme by the deadline of April 30, 2024. It was emphasized by the FBR that those who have already registered do not need to re-register.
