Govt to Use AI to Revive FBR

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb on Saturday said the government is accelerating reforms to modernize the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) by using artificial intelligence (AI) and strengthen tax regime.

He urged FBR officers to adopt AI and continuously upgrade their skills, saying modern tax administration depends on digital systems and integrated databases.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the FBR’s Postgraduate Diploma Program at Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS), Aurangzeb said the reforms aim to improve transparency, restore taxpayers’ confidence, expand the tax net, and create a more efficient and people-friendly tax system.

He said the government is introducing a new operating model for the FBR that will enhance institutional transparency and efficiency while integrating modern digital systems and data sharing across government institutions to detect tax evasion and improve policymaking.

Aurangzeb said the government has already uncovered major cases of sales tax evasion.

The finance minister said the prime minister has placed special emphasis on FBR reforms and the transition toward a cashless economy to document the economy and improve financial transparency. He added that the reform drive began with the sugar sector, followed by enforcement measures in the cement industry.

Addressing officers who completed the diploma program, Aurangzeb said they now have the responsibility to help transform the FBR into a modern, effective, and citizen-focused institution through professionalism and integrity.

He also expressed confidence that when Pakistan marks 100 years of independence in 2047, the program launched in 2026 will be remembered as a key milestone in the country’s institutional reform journey.

FBR Chairman Muhammad Rashid Langrial said continuous professional training is essential for building a modern and transparent tax administration. He added that such programmes are designed to equip FBR officers with the skills needed to improve institutional performance and strengthen Pakistan’s tax system.

Awards and certificates were distributed among officers who performed exceptionally during the program.