FBR issues stern warning to IR field formations

The Federal Board of Revenue has cautioned Inland Revenue field formations against harassing taxpayers while checking goods in transit. According to Business Recorder, a notification issued on Monday restricts such checks on Third Schedule items to confirming that the required retail price is printed or embossed on the goods, with action taken only in cases of non-compliance.

Under the notification, officers cannot request a driver's CNIC or paperwork other than the digital invoice or the Stock Transfer Note that applies. Vehicles must not be diverted to, or held at, premises that lack authorisation, and goods in transit should normally not be physically inspected, examined or unloaded. A missing digital invoice will be dealt with under separate rules and cannot alone justify holding a vehicle or its cargo.

The FBR said any departure from these instructions will be viewed seriously and that harassment will not be tolerated. The aim, according to the notice, is to keep the movement of goods smooth and unobstructed. The notice does not refer to any PSX-listed company.