Written by Shahnawaz Akhter Government plans technology-driven tax reforms to curb evasion and improve transparency Islamabad: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) is planning to introduce an AI-based tax system through the upcoming Finance Bill 2026 to identify false information in tax returns and strengthen enforcement against tax evasion. The proposal was discussed during a high-level meeting in Islamabad chaired by Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Cheema to review tax enforcement measures for the federal budget 2026-27. The meeting was attended by Federal Minister for Climate Change Musadik Malik, Advisor to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan, Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani, FBR Chairman Rashid Mahmood Langrial, Attorney General for Pakistan Mansoor Usman Awan, and senior officials. AI-based monitoring system under consideration During the briefing, FBR officials presented several proposals aimed at reducing the tax gap, curbing underreporting, preventing under-invoicing, and controlling smuggling activities. Among the major proposals was the introduction of an AI-based tax system capable of detecting false declarations and suspicious transactions in tax returns through automated digital monitoring mechanisms. Officials said the proposed system would help strengthen oversight, minimize tax fraud, and improve documentation in the economy through technology-driven enforcement tools. E-auction system for confiscated goods proposed The meeting also discussed plans to introduce an electronic auction system for confiscated customs goods to improve transparency…