Retailers’ Tax Scheme to continue beyond 2026: Muhammad Aurangzeb

October 10, 2026 (MLN): The Retailers’ Tax Scheme is intended to run beyond 2026 as a long-term, simplified route for small retailers to enter and stay within the formal tax system, Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb said.

He said the scheme should not be seen as a one-year arrangement. He was chairing a meeting at the Finance Division to review progress on the scheme and discuss measures to facilitate registration and broaden the tax base.

The Minister of State for Finance, the Chairman Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and senior FBR officials attended.

Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb said the government is working to simplify tax procedures and make it easier for retailers to meet their tax obligations. He said the scheme gives retailers a simplified way to join the formal tax system and contribute to economic development.

The meeting reviewed progress on registrations and tax returns, including participation by existing taxpayers and the requirements for tax payments. It also looked at filing procedures, deadlines and related operational matters.

The Finance Minister stressed the need to assess implementation experience and resolve operational issues to make the scheme a success.

The meeting also discussed identifying and mapping unregistered retailers using available data and identification records. The FBR briefed the meeting on data validation and the need to ensure that registration records accurately reflect the businesses concerned.

Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb called for a balanced approach that combines taxpayer facilitation with a targeted and well-documented process.

The meeting reaffirmed the importance of making tax compliance simpler and more accessible for small retailers while progressively documenting economic activity and broadening the tax base. The Finance Minister said sustained progress would require effective facilitation and a consistent approach.

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