The federal government has launched a new Retailer Scheme App to simplify tax registration for small shopkeepers across Pakistan.
The digital platform will also allow retailers to submit tax returns through their mobile phones.
Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani announced the initiative during a press conference. Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb was also present during the announcement.
According to Kayani, the government developed the platform after consultations with representatives of the trader community.
The app is available to existing taxpayers and shopkeepers who are currently outside the formal tax system. Retailers can use the platform to register as tax filers and submit their returns digitally.
The government expects the Retailer Scheme App to make tax compliance easier for small businesses. Under the simplified tax regime, registered retailers will pay 1% tax on their sales or turnover.
However, the scheme includes a minimum tax payment of Rs25,000. The broader framework covers eligible businesses with annual turnover of up to Rs200 million.
Shopkeepers joining the scheme will also receive a Green Plate carrying a QR code. The Green Plate will be displayed at the participating retailer’s business premises.
According to the government, FBR officials will generally not enter premises displaying a valid Green Plate for tax-related matters.
Participants will also receive relief from Point-of-Sale requirements and routine tax audits. These measures are designed to reduce compliance difficulties for smaller businesses.
Participation in the retailer scheme will remain voluntary. Eligible shopkeepers can choose the simplified tax system or continue filing through the normal tax regime.
The government is also working to make the platform more accessible across different regions. Kayani said the Retailer Scheme App will become available in local languages by the first week of September.
The addition of local languages is expected to help traders who may face difficulties using English-based tax platforms. Authorities expect the initiative to encourage millions of previously undocumented retailers to enter the formal tax system.
The programme forms part of the government’s broader efforts to digitise tax administration and expand Pakistan’s tax base. Meanwhile, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb also announced plans to simplify tax filing for salaried individuals.
He said the government is developing a simpler income tax return form for salaried taxpayers. The proposed form is intended to make filing easier and reduce compliance difficulties.
The government believes expanding the retailer tax base could help distribute the country’s tax burden more widely. Officials also expect greater participation from retailers to reduce pressure on already documented taxpayers.
In other news read more about: Pakistan’s 5G Users Reach 1.3 Million Across 23 Cities
The new digital initiative will now focus on encouraging eligible shopkeepers to register and use the simplified system.
