Written by Shahnawaz Akhter Karachi, April 1, 2026 – Negotiations between the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and the All Pakistan Gems and Jewelers Association (APGJA) over the controversial Section 175C of the Income Tax Ordinance, 2001 ended without agreement on Wednesday, raising the likelihood of enforcement action and nationwide protests by jewelers. APGJA President Qasim Shikarpuri confirmed that three rounds of talks were held with FBR Chairman Rashid Mehmood Langrial, but failed to yield any breakthrough. “Despite detailed discussions, no consensus could be reached,” he said, adding that the association remains firmly opposed to the new compliance mechanism. The primary point of contention is Section 175C, introduced through the Finance Act, 2025, which empowers tax authorities to deploy Inland Revenue officers at business premises for real-time monitoring. The law allows officials to oversee production, supply of goods, services, and unsold stock to assess tax liabilities more effectively. The APGJA has strongly rejected the move, terming it intrusive and harmful for business operations. According to Shikarpuri, jewelers are already…