PM directs FBR to simplify refund payments system

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday said that achieving economic stability and creating job opportunities for youth and skilled persons is among the top priorities of the government.

Chairing a meeting of government’s economic team, the prime minister said government is giving full attention on providing relief to the common man.

He said ensuring unhindered progress on development projects will not only accelerate the economic process, but will also result in more job opportunities for youth.

The prime minister directed to give special attention on improving the coordination between ministries and departments, while promoting out of box thinking and suggestions.

Chairman Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) Syed Shabbar Zaidi gave a detailed briefing to the prime minister on the measures taken regarding payment of refunds to exporters.

PM Imran Khan directed the FBR to further simplify the system of refunds payments so that small and medium exporters do not face any difficulty in receiving the refunds.

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The prime minister said the country has achieved economic stability due to government steps and trust of business community has increased. He said all facilities should be provided to small and medium traders and exporters in order to encourage them and to promote positive sentiments and trust.

The meeting was apprised that export figures of July-November indicate an increase in export volume and income in terms of dollars. The exports registered an increase of six percent in October this year in comparison with same period last year. The month of November also saw an increase of 9.6 percent. The prime minister expressed satisfaction on this positive trend.

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The prime minister was informed that 551 cases out of 1089 relating to FBR in the superior judiciary have been decided while 285 are under trial. PM Khan directed the Attorney General that efforts should be expedited to resolve the cases in courts on fast track basis.

He directed to provide all necessary resources to Attorney General’s Office to put the government’s viewpoint before the court in FBR-related cases. He said early resolution of the cases will help resolve the problems of business community.