Minister of State for Finance, Bilal Azhar Kayani, has directed the Federal Board of Revenue and PRAL to immediately address technical objections raised by shopkeepers and lawyers regarding the implementation of the 'Asaan Tax Scheme'.

He issued these directives while presiding over a review meeting on the 'Asaan Tax Scheme' in Islamabad today.

The Minister of State instructed authorities concerned to provide FBR plates to shopkeepers as soon as possible, who have filed returns.

He said 'Asaan Tax Scheme' is a unique initiative for shopkeepers, which is not available to any other business segment. He expressed the hope that more shopkeepers will join this scheme, which has been designed specifically for them.

Bilal Azhar Kayani directed the FBR officials and traders to ensure their liaison on a daily basis.

It was decided in the meeting to further enhance engagement with tax bars and lawyers.

The meeting was informed that 9,806 shopkeepers had joined the "Asaan Tax Scheme" within one month of its launch.

It was also informed in the meeting that one thousand nine hundred twenty nine new shopkeepers, who were not previously part of the tax system, have registered themselves under the scheme.

Furthermore, four hundred twenty eight shopkeepers have filed returns under the 'Asaan Tax Scheme' so far.

It was briefed that penalties will be imposed if taxes are not paid by the given deadline in accordance with either the ‘Asaan Tax Scheme’ or the standard procedure.

It was informed that shopkeepers from both small and large cities are among those filing returns under the 'Asaan Tax Scheme'.

During the meeting, trader leaders described the 'Asaan Tax Scheme' as a positive initiative and assured the FBR of their full cooperation.