ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has taken note of a proposal to authorise arrests of traders involved in tax fraud, following growing concerns expressed by the country's business community.
The issue was discussed during a high-level meeting chaired by the prime minister on Monday. Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, chairman of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), and senior legal officials were present.
According to officials familiar with the discussions, the finance bill includes a provision that would allow the FBR to arrest individuals involved in tax fraud, with penalties extending up to 10 years in prison.
The move has drawn criticism from Pakistan’s business community. The Pakistan Business Council formally wrote to the prime minister, urging a review of the FBR’s proposed enforcement powers.
