As we conclude Fiscal Year 2023-24 and recollect
the facts, the remarkable journey and milestones
achieved by the ever-successful Sindh Revenue
Board (SRB), during the year, fills me with deep
sense of pride and accomplishment. The year has
been transformative, marked by significant
achievements and an unwavering commitment
to our mission amidst a complex economic
landscape.
For FY 2023-24, SRB was assigned an ambitious
revenue target of Rs. 230 billion as against the
actual collection of Rs. 185 billion during FY
2022-23 implying a target requiring revenue
growth of (+) 24% which was not only met but
was also surpassed by achieving revenue
collection of Rs. 237 billion depicting a growth of
(+) 28%. One of the highlights was the
record-breaking collection of Rs. 28 billion in
June 2024, setting a new benchmark for monthly
collections.
SRB also made extraordinary collection of over
Rs. 14 billion on account of SWWF/SWPPF
during FY 2023-24, the ever-highest collection
despite mounting litigations and limited
workforce. The Fund amounts serve as major
source for fulfilment of Government’s objective
of providing welfare to the labour force and their
family members.
FY 2023-24 presented several challenges that
tested our resolve. The economic environment
was marked by low GDP growth, ongoing and
ever-increasing litigations, and a tax-free budget
that restricted our ability to adjust tax rates or
expand the tax base. In response, SRB adopted
proactive approach by reinforcing audit
capabilities, enhancing enforcement measures,
and leveraging technological innovations. These
efforts not only helped us mitigate the impact of
of external challenges but also resulted in
profound performance throughout the year.
Additionally, our efforts to address taxpayers'
concerns and to provide necessary facilitation
were well-received which fostered a more
conducive environment for businesses.
SRB's active participation in the World Bank
Roundtables aiming at harmonization of sales
tax regime in Pakistan and also timely
coordination with other Sales Tax Authorities
resulted in key achievements including
implementation of a single portal/single return
which has not only simplified tax compliance
but has also reduced the cost of compliance for
the taxpayers.
As we move into FY 2024-25, we face a new set
of opportunities and challenges. In recognition
of SRB’s capabilities and consistent
performance, it has been assigned ambitious
revenue target of Rs. 350 billion for FY 2024-25.
This target is supported by our strategic
initiative to broaden the tax base by
incorporating new services into the tax net
through the Sindh Budget 2024-25. Our focus
for the upcoming fiscal year will include
continuing to leverage technological
innovations, enhancing enforcement measures,
and fostering a supportive environment for
businesses. We are hopeful that with our
dedicated team and strategic approach, we will
achieve the target and continue to contribute to
the economic prosperity of Sindh.
I would like to extend my gratitude to Chief
Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah for his support,
guidance and leadership. His guidance has
been instrumental in our success and has ensured that SRB operates with the highest
standards of fairness and transparency. I also
want to acknowledge the invaluable
contributions of our taxpayers. Their
cooperation and trust are essential to our
success, and SRB remains committed to
providing them with the best possible services to facilitate their business operations.
Furthermore, I express my appreciation for the
support of the Finance Department and other
Government departments. Their collaboration
has been crucial in achieving our objectives and
advancing our mission.
Chairman, Sindh Revenue Board
Sindh Revenue Board (SRB) Head Office, 3rd Floor, Shaheen Complex, M. R. Kiyani Road, Karachi.