01/06/2026
Proposal to Increase GST Rejected; Government Urged to Reduce Taxes: Engr. Nadeem Mumtaz Qureshi
An increase of one percent in General Sales Tax would generate an additional 250 to 300 billion rupees, yet it would exacerbate public hardships.
For revenue enhancement, fundamental reforms must be introduced in the FBR system to strengthen its institutional capacity.
To promote economic growth and investment, it is imperative to gradually reduce tax rates and provide maximum relief to the nation.
Multan — Chairman Mustaqbil Pakistan, Engr. Nadeem Mumtaz Qureshi, rejected the proposal to raise General Sales Tax and demanded a reduction in tax rates. He stated that raising GST from 18% to 19% would be tantamount to burying the people alive. While a one percent increase in GST could yield an additional 250 to 300 billion rupees in revenue, it would come at the cost of imposing further financial burdens and intensifying inflation. Citizens, already compelled to purchase essential commodities at exorbitant prices due to existing taxes, should be granted relief rather than subjected to additional strain.
He emphasized that instead of perpetuating the annual tradition of increasing existing taxes, the government should have undertaken fundamental reforms in the FBR system to enhance its efficiency and eliminate all avenues of tax evasion. Engr. Nadeem Mumtaz Qureshi asserted that for economic progress and the promotion of investment, it is essential to gradually reduce tax rates so that industries, the business community, and ordinary consumers may obtain relief. Lowering taxes would stimulate business activity, create new employment opportunities, and ultimately increase government revenues.
Media Cell Mustaqbil Pakistan
01.06.2026