The All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA) has requested intervention from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to address the issue of filing sales tax returns, as numerous power distribution companies (Discos) have failed to submit their returns by the deadline. In a press statement released on Wednesday, Shahid Sattar, Secretary General of APTMA, detailed the concerns in a letter to the FBR chairman.
Sattar stated that many businesses, including APTMA members, are unable to file their sales tax returns by the deadline due to the failure of Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) and other Discos to file their own returns on time. This failure is creating significant operational hurdles and financial uncertainties for the companies reliant on these Discos.
“We request an exemption to allow firms to file their sales tax returns even if the respective Disco has not filed its return,” Sattar urged. He highlighted the importance of granting this exemption, similar to recent allowances made for Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) and Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL), to ensure that businesses can file their returns without facing penalties or disruptions due to factors beyond their control.
The issue stems from a gridlock caused by Statutory Regulatory Order (SRO) 350, which is hindering industrial business activities across the country. Sattar stressed the need to revisit and resolve this regulation to foster a more favourable environment for economic recovery and growth. He warned that businesses unable to file their returns on time would be classified as “non-filers,” leading to further operational disruptions and financial penalties.
“Until a consensus is reached, it is imperative that immediate relief measures, such as the requested exemption, be granted to alleviate the pressing concerns of businesses and prevent further economic strain,” Sattar added.
APTMA has expressed its willingness to engage in further discussions with the FBR and hopes for prompt action.
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