Islamabad: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday directed the immediate execution of reforms within the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), emphasizing digitization and automation to combat tax evasion and improve the tax system.

During a high-level review meeting, the prime minister stressed the urgency of these reforms, which aim to address decades of inefficiencies. He assured that while honest taxpayers and businesses would receive maximum facilitation, those engaging in tax evasion would face strict legal consequences.

The prime minister acknowledged the efforts of the FBR and related enforcement agencies in enhancing tax revenue, praising their work as commendable.

The meeting reviewed the implementation of a National Targeting System designed to curb sales tax evasion. The system will employ e-tags and digital devices to monitor vehicles transporting goods, supported by an e-Bilty mechanism through the FBR’s system. Digital monitoring at major highways and city entry points aims to reduce smuggling and streamline commuting.

Additionally, the introduction of a Customs Targeting System at ports and airports was discussed. This system will automate the monitoring of imports and exports, utilizing artificial intelligence and integrating with domestic and international databases to combat smuggling and tax fraud.

Officials briefed the meeting on plans to train FBR staff on these new systems, with a phased rollout starting with a pilot project. Sectors including cement, hatcheries, poultry feed, tobacco, and beverages will face stricter sales tax surveillance.

The Prime Minister emphasized that all measures should be implemented promptly, effectively, and sustainably.