Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that Pakistan must urgently increase his income to reduce loan dependence and avoid long -term dependence on the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Speaking during a visit to the headquarters of the Federal Income Board (FBR) in Islamabad, on Thursday, the prime minister described the increase in public debt as a serious challenge and requested sustained economic reforms.
“We have to increase national income through hard work and determination,” said the prime minister. “If we do not, the debt will continue to accumulate, and we will never get rid of the IMF,” said Express News.
Prime Minister Shehbaz said the FBR digitalization unit was underway, but warned that the process faced obstacles that should be addressed quickly.
He described the reforms of the fiscal system as essential for the economic stability of Pakistan and future growth.
Officials informed the Prime Minister on current reforms, including the launch of decision -making systems based on data and a new performance management system for tax officials.
The FBR is integrating data from NADRA, banks and asset records to improve fiscal compliance and expand the country’s tax base. A digital billing system, aimed at curbing tax evasion, is also found in its final stages and will be implemented soon.
“A 27% increase in tax collection during the past year is commendable,” said Prime Minister Shehbaz. “But we must resolve the cases of high value trapped in the courts. Two recent decisions on themselves have brought billions to the treasure. Imagine what more dozen could do.”
The Prime Minister inaugurated a fully automated monitoring system based on performance for fiscal officials, designed to guarantee transparency and merit of rewards.
He also toured the recently established FBO delivery unit, where he met the staff and reviewed the operational configuration.
Calling FBR officers a “valuable national asset”, Prime Minister Shehbaz expressed the hope that modernization would allow the tax authority to play a key role in strengthening the country’s economy and relieving the burden of debt.
