Mobile service providers in Pakistan have collected a staggering Rs. 84.24 billion in taxes from consumers during the first nine months of the current fiscal year, according to data shared by the Ministry of Finance during a recent session of the National Assembly. The amount, gathered between July 2024 and March 2025, has been directly deposited into the national exchequer, showcasing the growing financial contribution of the telecom sector.
The update came as part of the government’s response during the question hour, where additional key economic figures were also presented. The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has registered 2.39 million new taxpayers following recent amendments in tax legislation. As of April 29, 2025, a total of 6.59 million individuals have submitted tax returns. This figure includes 106,118 Associations of Persons (AOPs) and 93,749 companies — a notable boost to Pakistan’s tax base.
In another major development, the government outlined its updated privatization roadmap. The Cabinet Committee on Privatization approved the sell-off of 24 state-owned enterprises during its August 2024 meeting. The process will roll out in three phases over the next five years. The first phase, expected to conclude within a year, includes high-profile entities such as Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), First Women Bank, House Building Finance Corporation, Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited (ZTBL), and Pakistan Engineering Company (PECO). Power distribution companies like IESCO, GEPCO, FESCO, and Sindh Engineering Limited will also be part of this phase.
Meanwhile, lawmakers were informed that no nationwide poverty survey has been carried out since 2018. The last survey indicated that 21.9% of Pakistan’s population was living below the poverty line. However, a new survey has been completed and is expected to be officially published before the end of next year, according to Planning Minister Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry.
As the government strengthens tax collection and accelerates privatization efforts, these developments highlight significant shifts in Pakistan’s economic landscape heading into 2026.
