
Oil Industry Seeks Swift Resolution of Mounting Challenges
Oil industry warns of collapse, urges OGRA to convene urgent meeting on sales tax refunds, exchange losses and port bottlenecks.

Oil industry warns of collapse, urges OGRA to convene urgent meeting on sales tax refunds, exchange losses and port bottlenecks.

FBR issues notices to influencers flaunting luxury lifestyles as part of an expanded tax crackdown.

Foreign investors warn that prolonged refund delays are hurting Pakistan’s investment climate.

Langrial tells Senate panel that premiums on luxury smartphones justify higher taxes and affect only a small segment.

The Federal Tax Ombudsman received a record 35,716 complaints against the FBR in 2025, achieving 98% implementation of its recommendations. Outgoing FTO Dr. Asif Mehmood Jah also launched youth internship programs and diplomatic grievance cells, with Pakistan’s model now inspiring other countries.

Punjab Revenue Authority approves immediate action against non-filers and under-reporters, expands e-invoicing rollout.

High taxes on imported and high-end mobile phones in Pakistan have exposed flaws in the PTA taxation system, including lost taxes on stolen or damaged devices and unfair treatment of used phones, prompting calls for modern, flexible reforms.

The Pakistan Software Export Board has called on industry stakeholders to submit practical proposals for incorporation into the Federal Budget 2026–27. The initiative aims to align upcoming fiscal measures with the needs of the IT and ITeS sector, particularly in improving business ease, ensuring sustainable growth, and accelerating ICT export remittances. Submissions are due by December 16, 2025.

Bilawal Bhutto Zardari proposes provincial tax collection to tackle federal fiscal challenges and boost economic growth, citing Rs3 trillion in tax leakage. Speaking to the FPCCI, he emphasized decentralisation, respect for taxpayers, and cooperation with the business community. On provincial reforms, he urged implementing the existing consensus on South Punjab before discussing new provinces, calling for political reconciliation to ensure national stability.

A parliamentary panel has criticised the over 55% tax burden on mobile phones in Pakistan, calling it irrational and counterproductive to the country’s digital goals. Lawmakers said the heavy levies only serve the FBR at the expense of consumers and the economy. The committee has directed the FBR to analyse the impact of existing taxes and propose reforms by mid-March for incorporation in the next federal budget.