KCCI slams FBR’s ‘complex filing requirements’, calls for business-friendly reforms

KARACHI: President of the Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI) Muhammad Jawed Bilwani has criticised the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) for introducing complex monthly filing requirements through notification SRO 55(I)/2025, which he says make it nearly impossible for small-scale businesses and traders to submit timely sales tax returns.

Bilwani expressed concern over the new requirement to file detailed monthly stock statements, consumption data, and intricate purchase, sales and stock reports. He stated that small traders and business owners, particularly those with limited resources, are struggling to comply with these demands.

“The Karachi Chamber is facing immense pressure from small-scale importers, traders, and wholesalers who cannot afford professional accountants or tax consultants due to their narrow profit margins. Most of them operate with family-based manpower or a small team of essential employees. Requiring detailed information such as HS code-wise stock positions, purchases, sales and balances in terms of quantity and value is an overwhelming and impractical task,” Bilwani remarked.

He further pointed out that instead of simplifying tax compliance and easing record-keeping for businesses, the FBR continues to create additional burdens for the already documented sector. “Amid rising inflation, a challenging business environment, high tax rates, and ongoing law and order issues, these unnecessary compliance requirements are discouraging investment and business activity in Pakistan, especially in Karachi,” he said.

Bilwani strongly opposed the abrupt implementation of these filing requirements and urged the FBR Chairman to address the issue immediately. He highlighted the need for stakeholder consultation before imposing such measures.

“A more practical approach would be to collect this data annually rather than monthly, allowing businesses adequate time to comply without undue strain,” he suggested.

The KCCI president called on the FBR to adopt a business-friendly attitude to support traders and entrepreneurs in navigating the country’s challenging economic conditions.