New FBR rules make tax filing hard for small businesses. The Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI) has criticized the latest Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) rule, SRO 55(i)/2025. This rule makes it almost impossible for small businesses to file sales tax returns on time. KCCI President Muhammad Jawed Bilwani stressed that small traders are struggling.
Strict requirements add pressure
The new rule forces businesses to submit stock details, consumption data, and complex reports on purchases, sales, and inventory. These extra steps overwhelm small businesses that cannot afford accountants. Many traders depend on family or a few workers, making it hard to meet these demands.
Bilwani explained that businesses must now report detailed data, including H.S. code-wise records of purchases, sales, and stock levels. Most small businesses lack the resources to handle this. They already struggle with high costs, inflation, and a weak economy. Instead of helping, these rules push businesses deeper into trouble, especially in Karachi, the country’s main business hub.
KCCI demands a better approach
Bilwani urged the FBR Chairman to reconsider these rules. He stressed that FBR should have consulted business owners before imposing these conditions. A better approach would be to collect these reports yearly instead of monthly. This would give businesses enough time to prepare data without affecting daily work.
Business community seeks change
New FBR rules make tax filing hard for small businesses, and KCCI warns that this extra burden will only harm traders. Instead of strict policies, the government should focus on making tax filing easier. KCCI continues to push for fair policies that support business growth and investment in Pakistan.