Steel sector seeks FBR intervention as delays hinder FY27 budgetary reforms

According to Profit, Pakistan's documented steel sector has asked the Federal Board of Revenue to step in after delays and operational hurdles slowed the rollout of measures announced in the 2026-27 federal budget. In a letter addressed to FBR Chairman Rashid Mahmood Langrial, the industry urged faster implementation of steps meant to encourage corporatisation, documentation and digitisation, as well as curb tax evasion and widen the tax net.

The sector said delays at Pakistan Revenue Automation (Private) Limited (PRAL) are causing problems for taxpayers, even for minor routine matters that remain unresolved for long periods. Converting Associations of Persons into companies is one key issue, as delays in merging old and new Sales Tax Registration Numbers and National Tax Numbers persist despite efforts by Inland Revenue Operations. The industry proposed a time-bound mechanism and a facilitation unit at FBR headquarters to provide a single window for such problems.

The industry also questioned FBR's reliance on the traditional DAK and postal system for correspondence with chief commissioners and commissioners, saying it causes avoidable delays. It suggested a fast-track email and digital system instead. While welcoming recent steps such as wider delegation of authority and the creation of a Member Strategic Transformation post, the steel sector said budget measures had raised hopes for its revival, but operational difficulties were preventing their full impact.