Pakistan’s super tax recovery hits Rs217bn

February 4, 2026 (MLN): Pakistan’s Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has recovered Rs217 billion ($780 million) under the controversial super tax, amid growing concerns from lawmakers over retroactive tax demands and alleged taxpayer harassment.

The clarification comes after media reports inflated the figure to Rs300bn ($1.1bn).

Senator Abdul Qadir criticized the super tax, questioning how businesses could be expected to pay taxes for the past three to four years and warning that excessive pressure could drive investors away, according to the press release.

He urged the government to allow recovery over two to three years instead of demanding immediate payments.

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb said the government would consult the parliamentary committee during next fiscal year budget deliberations and directed the FBR chairman to provide a detailed briefing.

He assured that no business would be shut down and that installment plans could be offered in certain cases.

The development came as Pakistan prepares for talks with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) later this month on the third review of its bailout programme.

Aurangzeb confirmed that the UAE’s $3bn support remains intact and said Pakistan plans to issue Panda Bonds in China after the conclusion of annual holidays, highlighting efforts to secure external financing.

The FBR chairman also addressed concerns over text messages sent to taxpayers, clarifying that they are aimed at registered taxpayers to congratulate property purchases.

He added that the messages also remind them to declare these in their tax returns, a move that has helped increase the number of taxpayers by around 1m.

Lawmakers also debated privatization plans for state-owned enterprises, with Aurangzeb emphasizing that affected employees are being offered separation packages and that privatization would ultimately boost business activity and job creation.

This clarification on super tax recovery and taxpayer outreach is seen as crucial for maintaining business confidence and supporting Pakistan’s macroeconomic stability ahead of IMF reviews.

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