Retailers on tax net jump 31%
After a lull, the government's drive to integrate large retailers with the tax system picked up momentum in the last fiscal year and the figure jumped to over 17,300 businesses – an increase of nearly one-third, amid concerns to retain the growing base due to the introduction of a new small trader scheme. According to figures compiled by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), about 17,337 large retailers integrated with the Point of Sale (POS) network in the fiscal year 2025-26. There was an increase of 4,124 businesses or 31% in the base within one year. The scheme had been launched in December 2019 but it largely remained dormant due to multiple issues impacting its integration with the tax system. The FBR also earns Rs1 on every shopping receipt generated through the POS and the money is used for the welfare of the tax officials.