Only 181 Retailers File Returns Under Aasaan Tax Scheme Despite 3.5 Million Operating

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has received only 181 simplified tax returns from retailers under the Aasaan Tax Scheme so far, resulting in Rs. 18 million in tax revenue, despite having approximately 3.5 million retailers operating nationwide. Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kiani stated that around 5,000 retailers have registered through the Aasaan Tax Scheme app and are currently processing their simplified returns.

The first 50 retailers to comply have received green plates, which will protect them from routine FBR visits, questioning, and audits. These retailers have been issued green plates in various cities, with the first plate presented to a Peshawar trader. The FBR has also received 2.7 million income tax returns up to September 16, 2026, along with Rs.

6.1 billion in tax payments, which is higher than the 1.9 million returns filed by the same date last fiscal year. The FBR aims to receive 8.5 million filers for the fiscal year 2026-27. The scheme aims to integrate small businesses and shopkeepers into the documented tax system without subjecting them to unnecessary procedures and interference.

FBR officials would not visit shops for unnecessary inquiries once the green plate is displayed. The government is also addressing complaints raised by traders to restore their confidence in the tax system.