FBR launches new directorate to combat tax evasion, fulfilling IMF requirement

The federal government has fulfilled another condition of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and approved the establishment of offices for the Director General of Special Measures and two Directors at the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) Headquarters for coordination with field formations to address tax evasion.

A formal notification has been issued in this regard.

According to the FBR notification, the new directorate has been established to identify flaws in the country’s tax system, prevent mis-declaration and under-invoicing, and develop a more integrated strategy to combat smuggling.

The notification further mentioned that these measures will help remove complexities that lead to a decrease in revenues and eliminate unnecessary obstacles in the tax collection process.

The Director General of Special Measures will also coordinate with relevant ministries, divisions, and other institutions on customs-related matters.

The notification stated that under the new directorate, the Director General and Directors will ensure coordination with field offices and provincial authorities, identify flaws in revenue collection, and offer suggestions for resolving them.

Effective measures to stop mis-declaration and under-invoicing will also be proposed.

Furthermore, the directorate will assist in organizing special training courses and workshops for Customs Academy Pakistan to raise awareness among Customs officers and staff regarding mis-declaration and under-invoicing.

According to the notification, the entire process will be overseen by the Director General, who will report to the Member Customs Operations.

Earlier, IMF Director of Communications Julie Kozack said on Friday that Pakistan will receive $1.3 billion in climate financing.

Speaking at a press conference, Kozack highlighted that discussions with Pakistan covered both the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and climate financing, Express News reported.

Kozack further mentioned that Pakistan’s 37-month EFF program, approved in September of the previous year, remains in place.