Finance Minister Praises FBR for Historic Revenue Achievement

ISLAMABAD: (News Desk) – Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb visited the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) Headquarters on Wednesday and congratulated the institution for meeting its annual revenue collection target for fiscal year 2025-26. He described the milestone as a remarkable achievement driven by consistent reforms, strong leadership and the dedicated efforts of FBR officers across the country.

The meeting was attended virtually by FBR Chairman Rashid Mahmood Langrial, board members, senior officials, chief commissioners and chief collectors. During the session, the finance minister conveyed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s appreciation to the entire FBR workforce for their commitment and performance throughout the fiscal year.

Muhammad Aurangzeb said the revenue target reflected the success of Pakistan’s wider economic reform programme over the past two and a half years, during which tax collection had almost doubled. He added that stronger revenue generation had significantly contributed to improving the country’s macroeconomic outlook, helping achieve the lowest fiscal deficit and the highest primary surplus in Pakistan’s history while also strengthening external sector indicators.

The minister praised both the Inland Revenue and Customs wings for maintaining robust revenue growth despite granting major tariff concessions aimed at supporting economic activity. He also highlighted the payment of Rs599 billion in tax refunds during the fiscal year, including a record Rs13.5 billion released on the final day of the year, calling it a clear demonstration of the government’s commitment to facilitating businesses and exporters.

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Emphasising future reforms, Aurangzeb said a modern tax authority must balance revenue generation with taxpayer convenience, transparency and public confidence. He stressed the importance of expanding digital services, increasing automation, simplifying compliance procedures and minimising opportunities for discretionary decisions and corruption.

He further stated that the government’s newly approved operating model for FBR would speed up institutional reforms focused on people, processes and technology. The model also includes wider adoption of artificial intelligence and advanced digital systems to modernise tax administration and improve operational efficiency.

FBR Chairman Rashid Mahmood Langrial thanked the finance minister for visiting the headquarters on the first day of the new fiscal year and acknowledged the Finance Division’s continued cooperation during the budget process. He praised the professionalism displayed by officials of both institutions in addressing complex fiscal and taxation challenges.

The chairman also briefed participants on ongoing reforms designed to strengthen merit, professionalism and integrity within FBR. He highlighted technology upgrades, improved customs systems, AI-powered solutions and staff capacity-building initiatives, reaffirming the Board’s resolve to fully implement the government’s tax reform agenda.

Concluding the meeting, the finance minister once again congratulated the entire FBR team for its performance and expressed confidence that continued reforms and teamwork would further strengthen Pakistan’s economy. He also invited participants to give a standing ovation in recognition of Chairman Rashid Mahmood Langrial and the collective efforts of the FBR workforce.