ISLAMABAD (Special Correspondent) – President of the All Pakistan Anjuman-e-Tajiran and Traders Action Committee Islamabad, Ajmal Baloch, has formally urged non-filers and small traders to utilize the Simplified Tax Scheme introduced by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), describing it as a crucial pathway for businesses to integrate into the national tax net. Baloch further called on the FBR to extend the current deadline for the initiative until 31 December, arguing that more time is required to ensure widespread participation among the trading community.

Key Points

• Ajmal Baloch requested the FBR extend the Simplified Tax Scheme deadline to 31 December.
• The initiative aims to help small businesses integrate into the national tax system.
• Traders allege that corrupt elements are actively discouraging participation by spreading misinformation.
• Representatives seek relief from complex audit procedures and Point-of-Sale (POS) machine technical challenges.

Addressing Procedural Concerns

Ajmal Baloch noted that the FBR developed the Simplified Tax Scheme in direct consultation with trade representatives. This collaborative effort was designed to provide a more accessible entry point for small business owners into the country’s tax structure, reducing the administrative burden typically associated with compliance.

However, Baloch alleged that corrupt elements within various government departments and vested-interest groups are actively discouraging traders from joining the transparent tax system. He warned that by fostering doubt and circulating misconceptions, these entities are effectively alienating the business community from adopting the new policy.

The Call for Awareness and Facilitation

To counteract this, Baloch urged the FBR to initiate a comprehensive awareness campaign across local markets. He emphasized that the government must provide direct, clear guidance to traders to ensure they understand the scheme’s benefits and operational terms.

This sentiment was echoed by trade leaders, including Mian Kamran Kakakhel, Muhammad Nauman, and Shahid Hussain Abbasi. They highlighted that the Simplified Tax Scheme serves as a positive development, potentially offering relief from intricate tax procedures, audit-related anxieties, and issues surrounding the implementation of Point-of-Sale (POS) systems.

Ensuring Long-Term Economic Documentation

The traders’ representatives stressed that if the government is committed to expanding the tax net, it must prioritize the facilitation of business owners over the imposition of bureaucratic hurdles. They insisted that the scheme must remain straightforward, practical, and transparent to prevent the fear of harassment that has historically discouraged voluntary compliance.

The call for an extension was supported by a large delegation, including Khalid Chaudhry, Mian Basharat Kakakhel, Aamir Bukhari, and several others who gathered to discuss the Simplified Tax Scheme implementation. They reaffirmed the commitment of various traders’ organisations to cooperate with the government in documenting the economy, provided that their legitimate concerns are addressed through open dialogue and functional support mechanisms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are traders requesting an extension for the Simplified Tax Scheme?

Traders have requested an extension until 31 December to allow a greater number of small business owners to evaluate the scheme and complete the enrollment process.

What are the primary concerns of the traders regarding tax compliance?

Traders are concerned about complicated tax procedures, potential audit-related difficulties, and technical issues associated with the mandatory use of Point-of-Sale machines.