The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has collected data on over 57,000 jewellers across Pakistan in an initiative that is a major step toward curbing tax evasion in the sector.
The FRB’s data indicates that only around 20,000 jewellers are registered with the FBR, and just 10,000 have filed tax returns. Many jewellers underreport their income, paying minimal tax despite substantial sales. FBR officials confirm this practice is widespread, and the agency plans stringent action against tax evaders.
The FBR recently issued notices to 800 jewellers in Punjab, targeting cities like Lahore, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, and Multan. These jewellers must explain their low tax payments or face consequences.
Officials verify the declared income by comparing it to business operations, lifestyle indicators, and sales volume. Several jewellers pay low taxes while earning millions of rupees annually.
Read: FBR Targets Tax Evaders Flaunting Wealth on Social Media
Thousands of jewellers currently evade taxes. The FBR is determined to bring all sectors into compliance, ensuring no one escapes fair taxation. The agency only contacts those with clear discrepancies and avoids unnecessary disruption. This focused approach aims to maintain fairness in the tax system.
The crackdown underscores the government’s commitment to strengthening Pakistan’s economy by tackling revenue losses from tax evasion.