Quetta(Special Correspondent): Ayub Mariani, President of the Quetta Chamber of Commerce and Industry, stated that the business community has strong reservations regarding the Income Tax Amendment Ordinance and urges the government to review it immediately. He highlighted that the business community’s primary concern is the excessive powers granted to tax officers, which include the authority to freeze accounts and deploy personnel at business premises.

Mariani warned that these measures will lead to an increase in corruption and have stripped taxpayers of their right to appeal. He emphasized the demand for consultation with relevant stakeholders before enacting legislation, as the business community was not taken into confidence during the preparation of this ordinance.

The President of the Quetta Chamber further urged the government to facilitate the business community for economic growth and increased tax collection. He stressed the importance of consulting with the relevant business community and stakeholders before any future legislation. Mariani affirmed that while the business community is ready to cooperate with the government in increasing tax collection, legislation that creates difficulties for businesses and investment is unacceptable.