Pakistan is taking a firm stance against tax evasion with the implementation of a SIM blocking program for non-filers. This move follows a week of discussions between the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), and telecom companies.
To enforce Income Tax General Order No. 1, telecom operators have agreed to a gradual SIM blocking process. Starting with a batch of 5,000 non-filers, subsequent batches will follow daily. The FBR identified over 500,000 individuals who failed to file their 2023 tax returns, and their mobile SIMs will be blocked as a penalty.
This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to tackling tax evasion and expanding the tax base. By actively cooperating with the FBR, telecom operators play a crucial role in enforcing these regulations. The ultimate goal is to promote fiscal responsibility, accountability, and a fair taxation system in Pakistan.