Jewellers body warns FBR shop presence crippling trade nationwide

June 05, 2026 (MLN): All Pakistan Gems & Jewellers Association has strongly condemned the Federal Board of Revenue's conduct under Section 175C.

As per them, FBR officials are sitting in jewellery shops from morning till evening for up to 15 to 20 days at a stretch, crippling business activities and spreading fear among traders across the country.

Qasim Shikarpur, President of the All Pakistan Gems & Jewellers Association, said the jewellers community is regularly paying taxes yet is being subjected to continuous surveillance and undue pressure that amounts to discouraging business.

He warned that if the situation persists, the community will be compelled to announce its future course of action, according to a press release issued.

Qasim Shikarpur said protests are already underway in various cities including Peshawar, and that negotiations with FBR Chairman Rashid Mahmood Langrial are ongoing with meetings held in Islamabad every few weeks.

He said carrying out such actions during active negotiations undermines the environment of mutual understanding.

He demanded that FBR immediately discontinue the practice, adding that no civilized country permits government officials to remain stationed in business premises for days and weeks on end.

Furthermore, he called for the tax system to be made simple, transparent and business-friendly so traders can operate with confidence and contribute to the national economy.

Copyright Mettis Link News