ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Tax Bar Association (PTBA) has lauded the Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) outreach programme, calling it a step in the right direction and a great way of enhancing the image of FBR and broadening the tax base in the country.

In a letter addressed to FBR Chairman Tariq Mahmood Pasha, PTBA President Abdul Qadir Memon has welcomed the recently launched taxpayer outreach programme to create awareness and offer necessary facilitation from FBR officials about the filing of Income Tax returns. In the letter, Memon said the FBR chairman and his entire team deserves commendation and gratitude for its visionary outreach programme from the members of the bars across the country.

“This is first time in the history of FBR that your senior team members, Nausheen Javaid Amjad and Khawaja Adnan Zahir have made a concerted effort in creating awareness regarding filing of tax return not only for their interest but also for betterment of country,” he said in the letter. Memon believed the FBR’s efforts would go a long way in helping to broadening of tax base as the low tax base has put undeniable burden on the existing taxpayers and gravely impacted the tax-to-GDP ratio. “The tax facilitation of the existing taxpayers and simplification of various tax laws and procedures are important areas that require FBR’s attention as well,” he added.

Memon further hoped that under the visionary leadership of the FBR chairman, the dream to broaden the tax base will be realised. “We are hopeful that steps undertaken by FBR will enhance Tax-to-GDP ratio and lessen the burden on the existing taxpayers,” he added.

He noted with appreciation that tax facilitation to the existing taxpayers has been given immense importance in order to boost tax filing across the country. “Facilitation along with imposition of fair tax, dispensation of justice, confidence of existing taxpayers in the team members of tax machinery must be ensured for the growth of the economy.

We are extremely hopeful that these matters will also be addressed,” he said, offering all help from Pakistan Tax Bar Association and its members across the country to work hand in hand for a better and prosperous Pakistan.