A delegation of the Gujranwala Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI), led by its President Muhammad Ali Hamayoun Butt, called on Rashid Mahmood Langrial, Chairman of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), to discuss issues and challenges faced by the business community of Gujranwala.
Senior officers of the FBR, including Member (IR–Operations), Member (IR–Policy), Member (Customs–Policy), Chief (F&C) were also present during the meeting.
During the interaction, the GCCI delegation apprised the Chairman FBR of a range of concerns confronting the business community at both policy and operational levels. The delegation particularly highlighted matters relating to tax refunds, super tax installments, and other operational challenges affecting businesses.
Responding to the issues raised, the Chairman FBR informed the delegation that tax policy formulation has been transferred to the Ministry of Finance, whereas the mandate of the FBR is primarily confined to implementation and operational aspects of tax administration.
The Chairman assured the delegation that their concerns would be examined with due consideration. He directed the relevant wings of the FBR to review the issues raised and respond appropriately to address the difficulties faced by the business community at the earliest possible stage.
The Chairman FBR assured the GCCI delegation that legitimate refunds will be issued on completion of the due process and codal formalities. He further emphasized that while implementing tax policies, due consideration shall be given to the legitimate hardships faced by the business community, while reiterating that all taxes legally due would be recovered strictly in accordance with the law.
The Chairman FBR also assured the delegation that no official of the FBR would be allowed to create undue difficulties or seek any favour from taxpayers. He encouraged the business community to identify and report any corrupt elements within the FBR system with credible evidence, assuring that strict disciplinary action would be taken against those found involved in corrupt practices.
The delegation also comprised Mr. Saad Jamil Isfani, Senior Vice President GCCI; Mr. Faisal Sattar Mughal, Vice President GCCI; Mr. Asfand Yar, Secretary General GCCI; Mr. Mahr Ikram Raza; and Mr. Shawaiz Bin Ahmed.
