The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Revenue Authority (KPRA) is intensifying its efforts to improve tax collection and deter tax evasion within the province. This article details the recent crackdown on non-compliant businesses in Peshawar and the measures being taken by the KPRA.

KPRA Targets Non-Compliant Businesses:

• Restaurant Raid: A KPRA team, led by Assistant Collector Khalid Mansoor, raided a restaurant in Peshawar’s Saddar Cantonment area for non-compliance with tax regulations. The restaurant’s records were confiscated for examination.
• Repeated Notices Ignored: The KPRA had previously issued notices to the restaurant, requesting them to submit their records and potentially rectify any tax discrepancies. However, the restaurant management failed to respond to these notices, prompting the raid.

KPRA’s Stance:

• Zero Tolerance for Tax Evasion: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Director General (DG) KPRA, Fouzia Iqbal, has emphasized a strict approach towards tax evasion. Businesses are urged to cooperate with the KPRA and ensure complete tax compliance to avoid legal actions.
• Widespread Non-Compliance: DG Iqbal highlighted the issue of persistent non-compliance by several businesses, particularly hotels and restaurants in Peshawar. Despite repeated notices, some businesses haven’t addressed their tax obligations.
• Consequences of Non-Compliance: The KPRA warns non-compliant businesses of potential consequences beyond record confiscation. These include bank account attachment and even business sealing if tax evasion persists.

Appeal to Taxpayers:

• Settling Tax Liabilities: DG Iqbal urged all registered businesses with outstanding tax liabilities, short payments, improper sales tax invoices, or under-reported sales to rectify their tax standing immediately. Paying due taxes promptly will help them avoid stricter actions from the KPRA.

Looking Ahead:

The KPRA’s crackdown on non-compliant taxpayers signals a more proactive approach to tax collection in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Businesses are advised to review their tax compliance status and address any discrepancies to avoid penalties or legal consequences.