FBR, Jewellers set up RTO coordination mechanism

July 03, 2026 (MLN): Pakistan's jewellery traders and the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) have agreed to establish a coordination mechanism by appointing representatives at all 17 Regional Tax Offices (RTOs) to strengthen communication, address tax-related issues, and facilitate tax compliance.

Mr. Qasim Shikarpuri, President of the All Pakistan Sarafa Gems and Jewellers Association, said the development followed a meeting with senior FBR officials, particularly senior FBR official Mr. Bilal Azhar Kayani, during which both sides held detailed discussions on the challenges facing the jewellery sector, tax matters, and ways to enhance mutual cooperation.

Under the agreed framework, the Association will nominate two representatives for each of the country's 17 RTOs. These representatives will serve as a liaison between the FBR and the jewellery trade, helping resolve issues through direct coordination.

According to Mr. Shikarpuri, the FBR assured the Association that traders who comply with tax laws would not be subjected to harassment and would receive full cooperation from the tax authority.

He urged jewellers whose tax returns do not accurately reflect their assets to revise their filings without delay. Traders who have submitted nil tax returns were also advised to update their returns accordingly, while all relevant traders were urged to ensure the timely payment of advance tax.

Mr. Shikarpuri further said that traders who have already filed accurate tax returns should comply with the FBR's instructions by paying taxes with a 30% increase over the amount paid in the previous year.

He also emphasized that all tax-related matters should be handled transparently and strictly in accordance with the law, urging traders to avoid any form of bribery or "under-the-table" payments. Instead, he advised members to coordinate with the Association's nominated representatives when dealing with tax authorities.

Mr. Shikarpuri expressed hope that stronger communication, mutual trust, and continued cooperation between the FBR and the jewellery sector would help eliminate misunderstandings and deliver positive outcomes for jewellers across Pakistan.

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