Islamabad, January 21, 2025 – The Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO) reported a significant 51% increase in complaints lodged against the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) during 2024 compared to the previous year. According to the FTO’s annual report, a total of 13,506 complaints were received in 2024, up from 8,963 complaints in 2023—an increase of 5% beyond projected figures. The report highlighted that the FTO’s robust efforts resulted in a remarkable 63.69% improvement in complaint resolution. In 2024, 12,914 complaints were disposed of, compared to 7,889 in the previous year. These figures underscore the FTO’s commitment to addressing taxpayers’ grievances efficiently. Focus on Broader Impact Issues In 2024, the FTO Secretariat concentrated on resolving issues with far-reaching implications. Notable cases included the revision of valuation tables for immovable property, affecting real estate transactions across Pakistan, and addressing taxation matters related to private medical colleges. Furthermore, refunds totaling Rs. 22,793 million were issued to taxpayers following FTO recommendations. The FTO’s proactive interventions extended to registering new taxpayers and enhancing tax collection in the real estate sector and withholding tax regime. Relief measures included an automated system for jurisdiction changes and the restoration of blocked mobile SIMs. These initiatives not only alleviated public grievances but also safeguarded the national exchequer. Technological Advancements and Outreach The 25th Annual Report emphasized the…