Govt unveils simplest-ever tax scheme for small shopkeepers

The Federal Board of Revenue held a second awareness session on its Small Shopkeepers Scheme at headquarters in Islamabad, where Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani addressed traders in person and online, according to Mettis Link News. The discussion focused on the scheme's main elements: a streamlined sign-up process, adaptable payment arrangements and a working framework meant to make compliance simpler for small retailers.

Kayani described the initiative as the simplest scheme ever introduced in Pakistan and said it was framed under the Prime Minister's direction, calling it a chance for traders to join the formal economy and meet their national duties. FBR Chairman Rashid Mahmood Langrial stressed that retailers can enrol and settle their tax by paying a levy of 1% on turnover. He added that registered shopkeepers would receive support, that green plates issued under the scheme are meant to shield compliant firms from needless checks, and that traders who refuse to comply would face legal action.

Attendees were shown a walkthrough of the FBR digital system, covering the web portal and the mobile apps for iOS and Android, and a question round followed on registration and tax calculation. Trade bodies, among them the All Pakistan Anjuman-e-Tajiran and Markazi Tanzeem-e-Tajiran Pakistan, welcomed the simpler digital process and pledged continued support.