FBR chief targets Rs13,500 billion in tax revenue for 2025 despite shortfall

The Chairman of the Federal Board of Revenue, Rashid Mahmood Langrial, aims to collect Rs13,500 billion in tax revenue this year. This comes after a shortfall of Rs386 billion in the first half of the fiscal year, with collections at Rs5,623 billion. Langrial criticized tax evasion and stated that the tax system targets the top 5% of wealthy individuals. He acknowledged issues with both taxpayers and collectors, noting that tax rates in Pakistan need adjustment. The FBR plans to introduce new laws to enforce tax compliance among retailers and address smuggling of petroleum products. The government is also aware of the need to reduce tax rates on certain items.