The Pakistani Lawyers Association (PTBA) has called on the Federal Revenue Council (FBR) to establish a fully operating tax office in Gawadr, noting the increasing economic importance of the city and the need to improve the mechanisms of tax compliance.
Fazal Fazraz, a senior sales tax expert, confirmed that PTBA representatives discussed the matter with the FBR Chairman during a meeting at the FBR headquarters. The request is followed by the recent tax awareness symposium held in Jaddar, where PTBA temporarily created the Makran tax bar to cover GWADAR and Turbat and the surrounding areas.
Currently, GWADAR only has a FBR facilitation center, PTBA argues that it is not sufficient to meet the increasing compliance and procedural requirements of companies operating in the region. Given the strategic role of GWADAR in the China -Pakistani Economic Corridor (CPEC), its expanding commercial activities and GWADAR operating port are seen that there is no fully equipped tax office as a major financial infrastructure gap.
The dedicated tax office would enhance the collection of revenues by simplifying tax operations, ensuring compliance with companies, and reducing revenue leakage. It will also provide companies with direct support, which makes it easier for them to adhere to tax regulations, which ultimately encourages more investment in the region. In addition, PTBA confirms that the presence of FBR in GWADAR would improve transparency by facilitating better monitoring and reviewing business activities.
To address the instant gap, PTBA has suggested a temporary solution where officials of the HUB Regional Tax Office can conduct listening sessions via the video link or visit GWADAR on the basis of rotation. This would prevent local taxpayers from having to take a six -hour route to obtain tax -related procedures.
PTBA also urged FBR to establish a regional tax office (RTO) in GWADAR in the long term, in line with the government’s broader vision of economic expansion and regional development. The association expressed its confidence that FBR will take quick measures to support companies in GWADAR and ensure effective tax management in one of the most important economic centers in Pakistan.
