ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan government has introduced stringent measures in its 2025-26 budget to combat tax evasion and the fraudulent use of National Tax Numbers (NTNs), officials announced Tuesday.
The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has proposed expanding the powers of its Intelligence and Investigation Inland Revenue (IR) unit to crack down on offenders. Under the new provisions, individuals found guilty of deliberately using false NTNs or Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) numbers on tax returns and official documents will face severe consequences.
According to the proposed amendment, violators may be fined up to 500,000 Pakistani rupees ($1,800) and sentenced to three years in prison. The measure, outlined under Section 230(2)(a) of the Income Tax Ordinance, mandates that any discovered false NTN or CNIC during audits or investigations will trigger the full penalty.