ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has directed the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), and Intelligence Bureau (IB) to take joint action against tax evasion on sugar sale, undocumented sales, and price hikes.
The decision to take action against the sugar cartel has been taken at a time when the sugarcane crushing season 2024-25 is about to start in few days. Last week, IMF team was in Islamabad for almost a week during which different proposal to expand tax net came under discussion besides, shortcomings in the existing policies.
According to a statement issued by the PM Office, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said sugar crushing season is starting and complete GST collection from sugar mills and dealers should be ensured.
Shehbaz Sharif also took the decision to install cameras at sugar mills to prevent hoarding and stabilize prices. He warned of strict legal action against sugar mill owners involved in tax evasion and hoarding. The Prime Minister further directed that any increase in sugar prices would not be tolerated.
Shehbaz Sharif also instructed similar measures for other sectors, including steel, cigarettes, cement, and beverages. A notification regarding these decisions has been issued.
