Talks between Pakistan’s tax authority, FBR and cellular mobile operators (CMOs) have stalled regarding blocking millions of SIM cards belonging to individuals who haven’t filed their taxes.
This comes after the telecom sector criticized the FBR’s move as a violation of regulations and licensing agreements. CMO representatives highlighted technical, operational, and legal hurdles during discussions with the FBR, urging further consultations.
“There were no guarantees from telecom companies regarding SIM blocking,” a spokesperson for the CMOs stated. The FBR chairman was unavailable for comment at press time.
Meanwhile, the FBR has taken a step towards digitalization by forming a project management team for Tax System Digitalisation. The team will oversee the project’s implementation and collaborate with stakeholders to ensure its success.
