Federal Board of Revenue Chairman Rashid Langrial has assured traders that those unable to afford the Point of Sale (POS) system will be given relief and that no trader will be harassed.

A delegation of traders led by Central Organisation of Traders Pakistan President Kashif Chaudhry met the FBR chairman. Inland Revenue member Zubair Bilal and other officials were also present at the meeting.

During the meeting, Chaudhry apprised the FBR chairman of the challenges faced by traders, including alleged harassment by tax officials and the difficulties small businesses are encountering due to the enforcement of the POS system.

He said that despite traders’ concerns, the implementation of the POS system began at local and international brands and chain stores. While such businesses generally have computerised systems, backup power, trained staff and administrative capacity to adopt the system, smaller businesses operating within these chains continue to face practical difficulties.

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Chaudhry added that the enforcement of the POS system has significantly increased operational costs for smaller traders. He said that traders were facing excessive interference, penalties and shop sealings in the pretext of documentation, creating an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty.

The traders’ leader said the FBR has now extended its operations beyond brands and chain stores to ordinary markets and shops, adopting what he described as an aggressive approach. He said large convoys of vehicles and raids on markets give the impression as an operation is conducted against enemy forces and terrorists, calling the practice humiliating and mentally distressing for traders.

According to Chaudhry, notices are being issued based on personal discretion, with some traders allegedly let off after informal settlements, while others faced harassment, fines and shop closures for refusing to comply.

Responding to the concerns, Chairman Langrial assured the delegation that traders’ issues would be resolved. He said no trader would be harassed and strict action would be taken against anyone found blackmailing traders.

He also stated that FBR staff would be suspended if complaints of bribery or corruption were proven, adding that shopkeepers who cannot afford the POS system would not be forced to install it. The chairman emphasised that future steps would be taken through consultation with trader organisations and by building mutual trust.