Traders urged to ensure compliance with tax

The Regional Commissioner of the Federal Revenue Council (FBR) Sargodha, Azmat Mehmood Hayat Ranjha, stressed on Saturday that traders are the backbone of Pakistan’s economy and that no country can work effectively without a strong tax system.

Facing a ceremony at the Sargodha Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Ranjha emphasized the importance of tax compliance, stating that all developed countries are maintained by taxpayers’ money. “Pakistan also motivates those who fulfill their tax liabilities,” he noted. “Civilized societies operate with laws and regulations and economic transparency is essential in every sector.”

It was emphasized that sustainable economic growth is only possible when businesses thrive. In this context, it called on traders to secure financial transparency and to submit their tax returns before the September 30 deadline.

“People often question the need to pay taxes and what the state benefits in return,” he said. “Through tax revenue, governments are able to provide basic services such as quality education, health care, law enforcement, net drinking water, electricity and even free medical examinations in public hospitals.”

Referring to recent floods that have influenced 28 areas across Punjab, Ranjha stressed that the relief and restoration efforts are only possible through taxpayers’ contributions. “The government is spending billions of rupees to rebuild roads, restoring electricity and ensuring the availability of basic installations in disaster -affected areas,” he added.

He also assured the business community that FBR is fully committed to resolving their concerns. “If your intentions are clear, our doors are always open,” he noticed. “Many issues can be resolved in a cup of tea.”

Earlier, Sargodha Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Khawaja Yasir Qayyum, praised FBR’s efforts to deal with the business community. It recognized the vital role that traders play in strengthening the national economy and urged them to become part of the documented economy.

“Payment of taxes is a sign of patriotism,” Qayyum said. “In developed countries, people willingly fulfill their tax responsibilities. Pakistan must adopt a similar approach.”