Islamabad, Nov 20: PM Orders FBR to Take Action Against Sugar Mills for Hoarding and Evading Taxes
In a recent meeting at the Prime Minister’s House on the country’s economic situation, the Prime Minister directed the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to take action on various key sectors, including steel, cigarettes, cement, and beverages. He also instructed the FBR, Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), and Intelligence Bureau (IB) to investigate these sectors thoroughly.
The Prime Minister emphasized the need for effective monitoring of the sugar sector, particularly under the track and trace system, to ensure accurate tax payments on production, sales, and supplies. This directive aims to curb tax evasion and ensure compliance within the sugar industry.
Following the PM’s orders, a notification was issued, instructing the FBR, FIA, and IB to work together to prevent sales tax evasion in the sugar sector. Prime Minister Shehbaz stressed the importance of collecting 100% of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) from sugar mills and dealers, especially with the upcoming sugar crushing season.
He warned that any attempts at tax evasion and hoarding by sugar mill owners would lead to strict legal actions. To monitor the process, cameras will be installed to track production and stockpiling, ensuring proper GST payments and preventing price hikes.
The Prime Minister also made it clear that any rise in sugar prices would not be tolerated, stating the government has zero tolerance for tax evasion. Additionally, he emphasized that the sugar satta mafia and speculators would face strict measures to prevent artificial shortages of the commodity.