ISLAMABAD: Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani has said that the government is finalising revamped rules for a strengthened whistleblower reward mechanism as part of an extensive Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) reform agenda aimed at curbing tax evasion and broadening the tax base.
Addressing the National Assembly, Kayani said the revised framework—approved in principle by the Prime Minister—is being redesigned to encourage reporting of major tax evasion while safeguarding honest taxpayers from unwarranted harassment. “Our aim is a system where genuine whistleblowers feel protected and rewarded, without businesses being unfairly targeted,” he said.
He noted that feedback from leading chambers of commerce has been incorporated to improve transparency and fairness, adding that the finalised rules will soon be presented to the House. Kayani said digital invoicing, point-of-sale integration and data-driven compliance tools are central to capturing the full scale of business activity.
He told lawmakers that the FBR has enhanced system confidentiality through multiple third-party audits and is developing integrated data platforms and risk-management tools to identify non-filers and evaders without burdening compliant taxpayers.
Responding to supplementary questions, Kayani said the Prime Minister holds weekly reviews of FBR reform progress, tracking each milestone closely. “Improving FBR’s performance and tackling evasion are daily priorities for the government,” he said.
The minister said the reform strategy focuses on people, technology and processes—expanding audit capacity through training and private-sector experts, while deploying artificial intelligence to refine audit selection, detect under-reporting and minimise unnecessary contact with taxpayers.
“AI-driven audits, digital production tracking, lifestyle analysis and detection of fake or flying invoices are transforming enforcement,” he added, noting that an 84-member dedicated cell is already analysing high-risk cases using advanced data analytics.
Kayani reiterated that while enforcement is being intensified against evaders, the government remains committed to easing procedures for honest taxpayers. “The objective is clear: facilitate those who comply and tighten the net around those who evade,” he said.
He expressed confidence that sustained reforms and strong political oversight will help expand the tax base, boost revenue collection and support long-term fiscal stability.
