Tech critical for fair tax regime

Aurangzeb vows vigorous reforms, cashless push to strengthen financial system

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Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb speaks during a Reuters interview in Islamabad, Pakistan, June 15, 2026. PHOTO: REUTERS

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LAHORE:

Federal Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb said on Saturday that the government was taking vigorous steps to strengthen the country's financial system through fundamental reforms in the tax mechanism, increasing the efficiency of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), promoting a cashless economy and using modern technology.

"The government aims to ensure convenience for the public, restore the confidence of taxpayers and establish a transparent system that can become the basis for Pakistan's sustainable economic development," he remarked.

Aurangzeb expressed these views while addressing the closing and certificate distribution ceremony of the FBR's Postgraduate Diploma Programme at Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS). A large number of faculty members and officers who completed the diploma programme, and FBR Chairman Rashid Langrial were present.

The finance minister stressed that the government was working in a coordinated manner to improve tax policy and tax administration. "A new model is being introduced in the FBR, which will significantly improve the transparency and efficiency of the institution."

Aurangzeb, while congratulating the officers who completed the training programme, said "now the responsibility falls on them to bring about positive change in the institution with their professional skills, integrity and modern knowledge". "I am confident that these officers will play an important role in making the FBR a modern, effective and people-friendly institution," he added.