LAHORE: A four-member delegation of the World Bank held a meeting with Punjab Revenue Authority (PRA) Chairman Moazzam Iqbal Sipra to discuss measures aimed at promoting a cashless economy in Punjab and the practical initiatives being implemented by the provincial government.
During the meeting, the PRA chairman briefed the delegation on ongoing efforts to facilitate the services sector and encourage the adoption of digital payment systems. He highlighted that consumers in the hotel and restaurant sector are being offered tax relief of up to 11 percent on payments made through debit and credit cards as an incentive to shift away from cash transactions.
The chairman further shared that the World Bank and the PRA have agreed on a joint working plan to fully digitalize the tax collection framework. He emphasized that the transition towards an e-economy would play a key role in curbing tax evasion while reducing manipulation and tampering of records.
He also informed the delegation that the development and operations of PRA’s electronic system will be integrated with the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) database to enhance transparency and operational efficiency. In addition, with the support of other government institutions, the scope of business registration and tax collection is being expanded across the province.
The World Bank delegation appreciated the reform-oriented agenda of the Punjab Revenue Authority and assured full practical cooperation in implementing digital and cashless initiatives in Punjab.
