Advertisement
Categories: BusinessNewsTech

Government Mulls Additional Taxes on Mobile Recharge and Internet for Non-Filers

Advertisement

As tensions persist between the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), and mobile companies regarding the blocking of SIMs belonging to non-filers, the federal government explores alternative measures to enhance tax recovery.

Reports suggest that the government is contemplating the introduction of an additional tax targeting individuals who fail to file their taxes, particularly focusing on mobile loads and bundles.

Read: PTA Rejects FBR’s Request to Block SIM Cards of Non-Tax Filers

The proposed decision, pending approval from the cabinet, aims to implement the new tax regime from May 15 following extensive negotiations. Government sources indicate a plan to impose a 2.5 percent additional tax alongside withholding tax for non-filers.

Recent developments saw the FBR sharing data of non-filers with the PTA, prompting the tax authority to consider legal action against the PTA and cellular companies for their alleged failure to block SIM cards of non-filers, despite previous unsuccessful negotiations.

Read: Non-Filer? Here’s How to Check if You Are on FBR’s SIM Block List

Telecom operators have opposed the blocking of over half a million SIM cards belonging to non-filers, citing concerns such as SIMs registered under spouses’ names and potential adverse effects on digitalization and the telecom industry.

Advertisement
News Desk

Recent Posts

Why PHEVs — Not EVs — Are Winning the First Round of Electrification in Emerging Markets

As global momentum around electric vehicles (EVs) accelerates, a different reality is taking shape across…

21 minutes ago

Shehbaz Sharif Arrives in Türkiye Post-Qatar Visit for Diplomacy Forum

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Antalya, Türkiye on an important official visit following his…

38 minutes ago

Cuba Ready for Possible US Attack Amid Trump Pressure, Says President Diaz-Canel

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel stated on Thursday his nation is prepared for a potential US…

44 minutes ago

Govt Enforces 8pm Closing Time for Islamabad Shops, Exemptions Apply

New business hours introduced in Islamabad The government has issued a notification mandating that all…

2 hours ago

Trump’s Iran Military Action Blocked in House Vote as War Approaches Third Month

Washington, D.C. - The latest House vote to block President Trump from further military action…

3 hours ago

Sharif Forms Parliamentary Board for GB Election Tickets as AK Elections Intensify

PML-N Forms Parliamentary Board for Azad Kashmir Elections Preparations for elections in Azad Jammu and…

4 hours ago