Written by Hamza Shahnawaz in Taxation Senator Saifullah Abro directs the FBR and FIA to investigate suspected tax evasion, verify consumption certificates and establish potential revenue losses estimated at Rs400–500 billion. ISLAMABAD: A Senate sub-committee has questioned the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) over imported goods worth approximately Rs1,120 billion under the FATA/PATA tax exemption scheme, directing the tax authority and other institutions to submit complete records within two days. The Senate Sub-Committee on Interior and Anti-Narcotics expressed serious concern over alleged misuse of tax exemptions, delays in recovering outstanding taxes and the failure of several companies to provide the required documentation. Convenor Senator Saifullah Abro directed the FBR, Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) and other relevant institutions to investigate suspected irregularities, establish potential revenue losses and identify officials or companies responsible for violations of the law. The meeting, held at Parliament House, reviewed consumption certificates issued for imported goods, alleged tax evasion, outstanding liabilities, ongoing investigations and the performance of relevant departments. Senator Umar Farooq and officials from the Interior Ministry, FBR, FIA, police and other departments attended. Rs1,120 billion imports under scrutiny During the briefing, officials informed the committee that imported goods worth approximately Rs1,120 billion under the FATA/PATA tax exemption scheme were being examined. Consumption certificates and related records had been identified for goods worth around Rs389 billion, while further information was required regarding the remaining imports, their utilisation and outstanding tax liabilities. The committee was also informed that 223 consumption certificates had been issued to 108 companies. Senator Abro questioned why complete records covering imports, factory production, utilisation of goods and tax payments were unavailable for all beneficiary companies. He criticised the FBR over delays in recovering outstanding taxes, arguing that Pakistan was seeking financial assistance from international institutions while…