Islamabad, Pakistan, the Senate Standing Committee on Finance opposed a proposed 18% stationery sales tax, warning that it would increase costs for students and parents.
Committee members raised concerns during a meeting over the proposed tax on educational supplies, including pencils, pens, geometry boxes and other student stationery items.
Representatives of the Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry’s Stationery and Taxation Committee also urged the panel to reconsider the proposal.
Riyaz-ud-Din told the committee that sharpeners, exercise books, glue, writing pads and colour pencils used for education should remain exempt from the proposed levy.
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He said the federal government had earlier decided not to impose the full 18% sales tax on stationery. He argued that introducing the tax would be inappropriate because it would raise education costs.
Committee members supported the concern that the measure would add to families’ financial burden. They urged the federal government to exempt essential educational materials from the proposed tax.
The committee said stationery used by students should remain outside the tax net to prevent a further rise in education expenses.
