LAHORE: Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry Acting President Tanveer Ahmed Sheikh on Wednesday welcomed the indication by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) regarding the possible complete withdrawal of Super Tax and reduction in the sales tax rate, terming it a positive step towards reducing the cost of doing business and promoting economic activity in the country.
The LCCI Acting President said that the business community has long been advocating rationalisation of the tax burden on the existing taxpayers. He said that the Super Tax adds to the financial burden on businesses and affects their ability to invest, expand operations and generate employment. He urged the government and the FBR to move forward with the complete withdrawal of Super Tax, saying that such a measure would provide much-needed relief to the business community, improve business confidence and encourage both domestic and foreign investment.
Sheikh said that at a time when businesses are facing high input costs, energy prices and other operational expenses, reduction in the tax burden would significantly help in bringing down the overall cost of doing business and improving the competitiveness of Pakistani industry.
The Acting President also welcomed the indication regarding a possible reduction in the sales tax rate. He said that a lower and more rational sales tax rate would reduce the burden on businesses and consumers, encourage documentation and help expand the formal economy.
He emphasised that the government should focus on broadening the tax base rather than increasing the burden on existing taxpayers. “Bringing new sectors and untaxed businesses into the tax net would help enhance government revenues while creating a fair and balanced taxation system.”
Sheikh expressed hope that the positive indications given by FBR would soon be translated into concrete measures. He said that a predictable, simple and business-friendly tax regime is essential for accelerating industrialisation, attracting investment, creating employment and putting the economy on a sustainable growth path.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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