ADB Mission Reviews FBR's DRM Progress

An Asian Development Bank (ADB) mission recently visited the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to meet with FBR leadership and discuss the progress of the Domestic Resource Mobilisation Programme (DRM). Led by Mr. Tariq Niazi, Senior Director ADB, the mission included specialists such as Mr. Laisiasa Tora and Ms. Sana Masood. The FBR team present at the meeting included key members like Mir Badshah Khan Wazir and Mr. Ardsher Salim Tariq.

The ADB expressed satisfaction with the successful implementation of Sub-programme I of the DRM programme, leading to the disbursement of $300 million to the Government of Pakistan in December 2023. This initial phase focused on laying down foundations for improved policies and institutional capacity within the FBR. Sub-programme II reforms are set to be completed by the end of 2024 to further enhance operational efficiency.

The FBR highlighted its commitment to transforming into a Digital Tax Administration in alignment with the Prime Minister's vision for modernization. Initiatives such as digitalization of processes aim to reduce taxpayer compliance costs, expand the tax base, and drive sustainable revenue growth. Collaborating with Karandaaz, the FBR is developing a comprehensive digital strategy to drive its digital transformation efforts.

Discussions also revolved around the Digital Tax Administration Project, with both the FBR and ADB showing keen interest in further collaboration to support Pakistan's digitalization initiatives. The meeting concluded with mutual agreement to explore avenues for strengthening cooperation in realizing the Government of Pakistan's Digital Tax Administration Project.