Finance Minister Calls for Simplification of Tax Filing for Salaried Workers
By Editor • August 20, 2026 • 1 min read
In a recent address at the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) headquarters, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb expressed his frustration over the complex tax return form currently required of salaried taxpayers. He stated, “I do not see any logic for this complicated form,” emphasizing that even highly educated individuals struggle with the process.
During the same event, which marked the launch of the 'Asaan Tajir' mobile app aimed at small traders, Aurangzeb highlighted that about 70% of salaried income is directly deposited into bank accounts after tax deductions, suggesting that the existing filing requirements are unnecessary.
The 'Asaan Tajir' app, available on the Google Play Store, is designed to simplify the tax filing process for small traders, allowing them to register and pay taxes digitally. The app will soon be accessible on Apple's App Store, with versions in various regional languages set to launch by early September.
Additionally, Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar announced that traders who register by the tax-filing deadline will receive a free green identification plate, intended to streamline interactions with FBR officials. This initiative is part of broader efforts to enhance compliance and improve revenue collection.
On another note, Aurangzeb disclosed that Pakistan has formally requested a $10 billion US Exchange Stabilisation Support Facility to bolster the rupee and stabilize foreign exchange reserves, with negotiations expected to conclude by September 2026.
Source: www.dawn.com
