Finance Minister Aurangzeb Stands Firm: Traders Must Pay Their Taxes

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has categorically rejected the calls from traders for the withdrawal of taxes, asserting that every sector of society must contribute to the nation’s economy. In a recent interview with a private news channel, Aurangzeb emphasized that exempting traders from income tax would only shift the burden onto the salaried class and the manufacturing sector, which is not a viable solution.

The finance minister reassured traders that the government is committed to addressing their legitimate concerns and providing all possible facilities, but he made it clear that the demand to withdraw taxes would not be met. “No country can prosper without its citizens paying their fair share of taxes,” Aurangzeb stated.

Addressing concerns about potential increases in withholding tax, the finance minister dismissed these rumors, affirming that no such plans are in place.

Regarding Pakistan’s ongoing negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Aurangzeb noted that the IMF has no objections to targeted subsidies, which can be distributed to the deserving through the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP).

He also mentioned that discussions with provincial chief ministers are scheduled for this week to finalize a uniform tax policy. “A national financial agreement will be prepared in consultation with the provinces this month,” Aurangzeb added.