LAHORE: The Punjab government has intensified its efforts to broaden the tax base by extending initiatives to the district level, aiming to incorporate more taxable services into the formal tax net. This step is part of a broader strategy to enhance revenue collection and ensure equitable compliance.
The Punjab Revenue Authority (PRA) has unveiled a detailed plan to identify and bring unregistered tax defaulters into the tax framework. Leveraging the expertise of officials at the district and tehsil levels, the PRA aims to systematically gather data on individuals and entities engaged in taxable services but not yet registered.
Speaking to the media, a PRA spokesperson explained that the task of expanding the tax base at the district level has been assigned to the Additional Deputy Commissioner (General). At the tehsil level, the respective Assistant Commissioners will oversee data collection efforts. These officials will work under the provisions of the Punjab Sales Tax on Services Act, focusing on unregistered businesses and service providers.
The initiative targets a wide range of unregistered entities, including marriage halls, hotels, motels, guest houses, catering services, restaurants, cable TV operators, and internet service providers. Additionally, data will be collected on builders, real estate agents, property dealers, automobile dealers, beauty parlors, salons, clinics, tour operators, commission agents, and a total of 21 identified service categories.
To facilitate the smooth execution of this initiative, the PRA has granted officials special powers under relevant sections of the PRA Act for a two-year period. This authorization enables them to effectively gather and analyze data, ensuring that non-compliant businesses are brought into the tax net.
The PRA spokesperson emphasized that this measure is a significant step toward strengthening Punjab’s revenue framework. By broadening the tax base and targeting unregistered individuals and businesses, the government aims to enhance tax compliance and reduce reliance on external funding sources.
This district-level initiative is expected to contribute substantially to the province’s financial health, fostering a more robust and transparent tax system while promoting fairness and accountability in revenue collection.
