ISLAMABAD: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has made it mandatory for all textile spinning units to install video analytics systems to monitor the processing of cotton bales — a move aimed at curbing the use of undocumented cotton (‘Gol Mall’) in the sector. The directives were issued through a notification (Sales Tax General Order No. 8 of 2025) released on Saturday.
Acting under Section 40C(2) of the Sales Tax Act, 1990, and Chapter XIV-BA of the Sales Tax Rules, 2006, the FBR has instructed all registered textile spinners to immediately deploy the prescribed video analytics solutions.
The notification states that cotton bale processing at every spinning unit will be monitored through video surveillance and analytics, with production monitoring equipment to be installed on production lines, blendomats and auto-plucker machines. Only vendors approved by the FBR will be authorized to install these systems.
Registered spinners have been directed to complete installation — including all required hardware and software — by December 31, 2025. Chief Commissioners will also appoint dedicated focal persons to coordinate with spinning units and authorized vendors to ensure smooth and timely implementation.
The FBR has instructed field formations to prioritize enforcement, especially for high-risk units suspected of using undocumented cotton. A jurisdiction-wise list of textile spinners has already been shared with field offices to facilitate the drive.
