Sustained Revenue Growth Achievable Only Through Mutual Trust: DG Excise

Award Distribution Ceremony for Best Taxpayers 2024–25

By Dr. Ansab Ali
Lahore, Pakistan

LAHORE: Director General Excise, Taxation and Narcotics Control Punjab, Umar Sher Chatha, has said that sustained revenue growth can only be achieved through mutual trust between taxpayers and tax authorities, emphasizing that recognition of top taxpayers lies at the heart of the Punjab government’s strategy to encourage voluntary compliance, enhance transparency, and strengthen public confidence in the taxation system.

He was addressing the Award Distribution Ceremony for Best Taxpayers 2024–25, organized by the Excise and Taxation Department Punjab at the Palace Hall of the Pearl Continental Hotel, Lahore. The ceremony was held to honour leading contributors to Property Tax, Motor Vehicle Tax, and other provincial levies.

DG Umar Sher Chatha appreciated both taxpayers and tax collectors, noting that collective efforts and ongoing institutional reforms have significantly improved revenue performance across the province. He reaffirmed the department’s commitment to simplifying procedures and ensuring a facilitative, business-friendly environment for taxpayers in Punjab.

Addressing the gathering as chief guest, Parliamentary Secretary for Excise, Taxation and Narcotics Control Malik Shehryar paid tribute to Punjab’s leading taxpayers, describing them as key partners in national development. He said that revenues collected by the department are being effectively utilized for public welfare projects, infrastructure development, and the improvement of civic services throughout the province.

President Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Fahim ur Rehman Saigol, lauded the reform-oriented approach of the Excise and Taxation Department, stating that respectful treatment of taxpayers encourages voluntary compliance. He stressed that strong coordination between the government and the business community is essential for economic stability and sustainable growth.

The Secretary Excise and Taxation Punjab, in his remarks, said the department is implementing wide-ranging reforms with a focus on transparency, automation, and stakeholder consultation. He added that continuous engagement with chambers of commerce, trader bodies, and business associations is helping to address concerns and further strengthen trust in the provincial taxation system.

During the ceremony, prominent taxpayers—including Emporium Mall, DHA Raya, Nishat Hotel, Avari Express, Habib Bank Limited (HBL), Attock Refinery, and Dolmen Mall—were honoured for their outstanding contributions.

President All Pakistan Traders Association Naeem Mir, along with other leading businessmen, was also briefed on the new taxation framework and ongoing reforms aimed at facilitating taxpayers and improving the ease of doing business.

The event was attended by a large number of industrialists, traders, senior officers of the Excise and Taxation Department, and representatives of the media.