13/08/2026
TAX CONSULTANTS ARE NOT REDUNDANT — FBR MUST CLARIFY
The reported statement by the Chairman FBR that tax consultants have become “redundant” because of digitalisation is not only disappointing—it reflects a serious misunderstanding of the modern taxation system.
Let us be absolutely clear:
DIGITALISATION DOES NOT REPLACE PROFESSIONAL EXPERTISE.
A tax portal can accept a return.
A computer can process data.
An algorithm can identify discrepancies.
But who interprets the law?
Who advises a taxpayer on the correct legal position?
Who handles complex assessments, audits, appeals and notices?
Who represents taxpayers before tax authorities and appellate forums?
Who resolves disputes arising from conflicting interpretations of tax law?
Technology cannot replace professional judgment, legal interpretation and accountability.
Pakistan’s tax laws are becoming more complicated, not simpler. The introduction of digital invoicing, data analytics, automated notices, point-of-sale integration and other digital mechanisms has actually created a greater need for competent tax professionals who can protect taxpayers from errors, misinterpretation and unlawful demands.
If the FBR believes that digitalisation has eliminated the need for tax consultants, then it should explain how a taxpayer is expected to independently interpret thousands of pages of constantly changing tax legislation, rules, notifications, circulars and case law.
Tax consultants are not merely “return filers.”
They are professionals who provide tax advice, compliance management, representation, litigation support, tax planning, audit defence and interpretation of law.
The answer to professional expertise is not digitalisation. The answer is better digitalisation working WITH professional expertise.
The FBR should focus on improving the tax system, broadening the tax base, reducing harassment, simplifying procedures and building taxpayer confidence—not undermining the professionals who stand between taxpayers and an increasingly complicated tax regime.
RESPECT THE TAX PROFESSION.
RESPECT PROFESSIONAL INSTITUTIONS.
DIGITALISE — BUT DO NOT DISMISS.
The tax community deserves a clear clarification and responsible explanation regarding the reported statement.
