A delegation from the Pakistan Carpet Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PCMEA), led by Senior Vice Chairman Usman Ashraf, met with the Federal Tax Ombudsman of Pakistan and Secretary General of Forum of Pakistan Ombudsman and OIC Ombudsman Association, H.E Dr. Asif Mahmood Jah to discuss issues concerning the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).
Dr. Jah reassured the delegation, emphasizing the critical role of exporters in the national economy and pledging to prioritize their tax concerns. He highlighted the office of Federal Ta Ombudsman’s achievements, including the issuance of Rs 17 billion in long-pending refunds over two years, underlining the forum’s commitment to delivering swift and cost-free justice, typically resolving cases within two months. The PCMEA representatives shared the challenges facing the carpet industry, particularly the taxation and customs duty issues on semi-finished materials imported from Afghanistan. They proposed tax exemptions for commercial importers similar to those for registered exporters to enhance competitiveness in global markets.
Furthermore, the delegation presented written concerns about penalties levied without notice and delays in FBR’s refund issuance. They argued that tax relief for commercial importers would significantly bolster the handloom carpet industry and increase foreign exchange earnings, vital for the country’s current economic needs. Dr. Jah instructed his team to involve a Carpet Association representative in the FTO’s advisory committee, ensuring no audits or notices are issued to applicants during their FTO proceedings.
