Recorder Report Published 43 minutes ago KARACHI: Federal Tax Ombudsman Dr. Asif Mahmood Jah has announced the establishment of a help desk at the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI) to address the tax issues faced by industrialists. The initiative aims to increase awareness among the public and business community about the Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO) services. Dr. Jah made these remarks while addressing industrialists at KATI. Dr. Jah highlighted that the FTO is mandated to resolve complaints within 60 days, with recent decisions averaging 38 days. He emphasized the independence and authority of the FTO, whose decisions can only be appealed to the President of Pakistan. Of the 550 appeals filed with the President, 490 decisions by the FTO were upheld. In 2021, the FTO resolved a refund complaint amounting to Rs.17.8 billion. Since taking office, Dr. Jah has increased the number of regional offices to improve public access to the FTO. He cited the swift resolution of complaints from 800 individuals regarding sales tax on vehicles, resulting in refunds totaling Rs.55 million. Dr. Jah assured taxpayers that they can report complaints without fear, and no unwarranted notices or audits would be issued. KATI President Johar Qandhari highlighted the increasing harassment of industrialists and the business community by FBR officials through unjustified notices and audits. He noted the difficulties in filing tax returns due to the slow FBR system and the arbitrary withholding of refunds, exacerbating capital shortages for industrialists. Qandhari pointed out the growing number of…