ISLAMABAD: The Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO) has resolved 8,128 complaints related to the mismanagement of tax and customs matters in 2023, compared to 6,106 cases in 2022.
Moreover, complaints increased by nearly 24%, with 8,076 complaints registered in 2023 against 6,480 cases in the preceding year. FTO provided taxpayers with relief amounting to Rs 17.74 billion in 2023, a substantial increase from Rs 7 billion in 2022.
President Dr. Arif Alvi commended FTO’s exceptional performance during his visit to the FTO Office in Islamabad today.
The meeting was attended by Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO) Dr. Asif Mahmood Jah, FTO Advisors, regional heads, and senior officials. Dr. Jah briefed President Alvi on the overall performance of FTO, outlining various initiatives and outreach programs aimed at facilitating taxpayers.
He emphasized FTO’s commitment to delivering free-of-cost justice within 60 days to complainants facing maladministration or high-handedness by tax officials, noting that the average complaint disposal time had been reduced to 44 days in 2023.
Highlighting FTO’s achievements, Dr. Jah mentioned the organization’s focus on providing tax relief to low-income employees, teachers, salaried individuals, pensioners, and vehicle purchasers through its decisions. He also outlined FTO’s efforts to expand its reach, open new regional offices, establish a helpline, and conduct awareness campaigns through seminars and interactions with the business community across the country.
Additionally, Dr. Jah mentioned FTO’s active role in using social media and mass messaging through cellular companies to create awareness about its services in tax matters.
President Alvi encouraged FTO to further intensify its efforts in registering and resolving complaints, emphasizing the need for increased outreach to taxpayers. He called for improved coordination between FTO and FBR for the prompt implementation of decisions and suggested enhancements to the tax regime.
President Alvi stressed the significance of an improved tax system for boosting tax and revenue generation in Pakistan, reducing dependence on loans, and ultimately improving the country’s economy. He commended FTO for providing relief of Rs 17.74 billion to complainants and addressing 8,128 complaints in the past year. The President also highlighted the importance of timely relief, especially for overseas Pakistanis.
