Director General Excise, Taxation and Narcotics Control Punjab, Umar Sher Chatha, has stated that acknowledging top taxpayers is central to the Punjab Government’s policy of encouraging voluntary compliance, strengthening transparency, and building public confidence in the taxation system. He emphasized that sustained revenue growth is achievable only through mutual trust between taxpayers and tax authorities.
He was speaking at an Award Distribution Ceremony for Best Taxpayers 2024-25, organized by the Excise and Taxation Department Punjab at the Palace Hall, Pearl Continental Hotel, Lahore, to honour the highest taxpayers of Property Tax, Motor Vehicle Tax, and other provincial levies.
DG Umar Sher Chatha appreciated both taxpayers and tax collectors, stating that collective efforts and ongoing reforms have significantly improved revenue performance. He added that the department is committed to simplifying procedures and providing a facilitative, business-friendly environment across Punjab.
Addressing the ceremony as Chief Guest, Parliamentary Secretary for Excise, Taxation and Narcotics Control, Malik Shehryar, paid glowing tribute to Punjab’s leading taxpayers and termed them partners in national development. He said that taxes collected by the department are being effectively utilized for public welfare initiatives, infrastructure development, and improved civic services throughout the province.
President Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Fahim ur Rehman Saigol, while addressing the participants, appreciated the reform-oriented approach of the Excise and Taxation Department and remarked that respectful treatment of taxpayers leads to enhanced voluntary compliance. He emphasized that strong coordination between the government and the business community is essential for economic stability and sustainable growth.
Similarly, Secretary Excise and Taxation Punjab highlighted that the department is introducing reforms with a strong focus on transparency, automation, and stakeholder consultation. He stated that continuous engagement with chambers of commerce, trader bodies, and business associations is helping to address concerns and further strengthen trust in the provincial taxation system.
During the ceremony, prominent taxpayers, including Emporium Mall, DHA Raya, Nishat Hotel, Avari Express, Habib Bank Limited (HBL), Attock Refinery, and Dolmen Mall, were honoured for their outstanding contributions.
President All Pakistan Traders Association, Naeem Mir, along with other prominent businessmen, was also briefed on the new taxation system and ongoing reforms, aimed at facilitating taxpayers and ensuring ease of doing business.
The ceremony was attended by a large number of industrialists, traders, senior officers of the Excise and Taxation Department, and media representatives.