Islamabad: Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, held discussions with a delegation from Pakistan Tobacco Company (PTC) at the Finance Division. The meeting focused on the Government’s fiscal reform agenda, which aims to enhance revenue mobilization and sectoral competitiveness through technology-driven systems.

According to Press Information Department, the delegation, led by Mr. Usman Zahur, Area Director (APMEAC) and General Manager Pakistan, included senior representatives from various departments within the company. The discussions centered on the Government’s ongoing reforms in tax administration, which target improvements in compliance, reduction of leakages, and fair revenue collection.

The Finance Minister explained that enhanced enforcement measures, supported by digital monitoring systems, are improving compliance and revenue collection in sectors such as sugar, cement, beverages, textiles, and tobacco. The PTC delegation acknowledged the Government’s efforts and discussed issues related to excise taxation, illicit trade, and the need for a stable taxation framework to support formal sector growth.

Both parties exchanged views on regulatory and taxation matters, sectoral competitiveness, and the importance of coordinated enforcement mechanisms. The Minister underscored the Government’s focus on revenue mobilization and effective enforcement, highlighting that sector-specific proposals would be considered within the broader fiscal and economic objectives.

The meeting also explored export potential and investment opportunities in the tobacco sector. The PTC delegation highlighted Pakistan’s role as a regional manufacturing hub and discussed international market opportunities and regulatory practices. The Finance Minister reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to engaging with the formal business sector to promote investment, exports, and economic growth while pursuing reforms to enhance the ease of doing business.