ISLAMABAD: A two-day high-level workshop on tax reforms, jointly organized by the Ministry of Finance and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), commenced in Islamabad on Monday, with the aim of formulating a modern tax system conducive to Pakistan’s economic growth.
Federal Minister for Finance Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb delivered the opening remarks at the workshop, according to a statement issued by the Ministry of Finance. Jihad Azour, Director of the IMF’s Middle East and Central Asia Department, and Rodrigo Valdes, Director of the IMF’s Fiscal Affairs Department, also attended the opening ceremony.
The workshop is deliberating on modernizing Pakistan’s tax system and identifying priorities for tax reforms. Discussions are focused on proposals for simplicity, transparency, fairness, and revenue enhancement, while participants will examine the interrelationship between tax reforms and economic growth.
According to the Ministry of Finance, the workshop will consider the establishment of a uniform sales tax system across the federation and the provinces. The formation of a simple and neutral income tax system is among the key topics on the agenda, alongside discussions on digitalization of the tax system, enforcement of laws, and building taxpayer confidence.
Fiscal federalism and provincial tax revenue matters are also part of the workshop’s agenda. The workshop emphasizes increasing investment, business expansion, and productivity through tax reforms.
Government officials, representatives of the IMF, the World Bank, tax experts, and the private sector are participating in the workshop. A high-level panel discussion will be held at the conclusion of the two-day event, focusing on priority measures for tax reforms and future strategy.
The workshop concluded with a reaffirmation of Pakistan’s commitment to establishing an effective, fair, and growth-conducive tax system.
