LAHORE: Provincial Finance Minister Mian Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman has said that Punjab government is not considering imposition of any new taxes to enhance the province’s own-source revenues.
Instead, it is focusing on industrial expansion, investment promotion, and ease of doing business to strengthen revenue generation.
In a meeting with Restaurant Association’s delegation here on Saturday, he added that upcoming provincial budget would introduce transformative measures for industrial development and economic growth.
He said, “The policy vision of CM Punjab is entirely business-friendly and aimed at promoting economic growth through facilitation rather than additional taxation”.
The finance minister mentioned that operational capacity of Punjab Revenue Authority (PRA) has significantly been enhanced to facilitate taxpayers and improve service delivery. He noted that PRA is currently operating in 38 districts across the province and has achieved a remarkable 40 percent growth in tax collection. He said, Punjab government is pursuing a comprehensive long-term strategy to tackle smog and environmental degradation.
Mian Mujtaba explained that revision in restaurant operating hours has been introduced as part of government austerity measures, while temporary restrictions during smog periods were intended solely to protect citizens from the harmful effects of environmental pollution. He emphasised that protective measures are being implemented in a manner that minimizes disruption to businesses and economic activity.
The government, he added, is actively encouraging the use of clean fuel and the adoption of electric vehicles to reduce emissions and improve air quality. Provincial minister made it clear that the government has no intention of shutting down businesses or affecting the livelihoods of citizens.
On this occasion, members of the delegation highlighted the challenges faced by restaurant industry and presented a number of proposals for the sector’s growth and facilitation. Mujtaba assured restaurant owners that any complaints regarding the conduct or functioning of PRA officials would be addressed promptly and transparently.
He further stated that issues related to input tax adjustment would be resolved through consultations with Punjab Revenue Authority and Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).
He also assured the delegation that restaurant operating hours would be reviewed in consultation with stakeholders.
Mian Mujtaba said Punjab government is paying special attention not only to improving the infrastructure of public institutions but also to enhancing their efficiency and public service delivery.
He noted that public complaints regarding government institutions are gradually declining due to ongoing governance reforms and administrative improvements.
The Restaurant Association delegation urged the government to recognize the restaurant sector as an industry and extend incentives and facilities to it, noting that thousands of families depend on the sector for their livelihood.
The delegation stated that it had no reservations regarding the performance and tax system of the Punjab Revenue Authority; however, input tax adjustment remained their legitimate right.
