The Pakistan Chemical & Dyes Merchants Association (PCDMA) has strongly criticized the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) for introducing sudden changes to the income tax return process and has demanded an extension of the income tax return filing deadline beyond September 30.
Speaking on the issue, Salim Valimuhammad, Chairman of PCDMA, said the last-minute amendments to the Income Tax Return and Wealth Statement forms for Tax Year 2025–26 have created chaos among taxpayers.
Sudden Changes Causing Trouble
Under the new rules, taxpayers must now declare all properties at their Estimated Current Market Value (ECMV) and list each asset individually. Valimuhammad described this as “ill-timed and poorly planned,” adding that the FBR failed to consult with stakeholders before rolling out such sweeping reforms.
Small and medium businesses, in particular, are finding it impossible to meet these requirements within such a short time frame.
Technical Issues with the Online System
The FBR’s updated online portal, launched only days before the deadline, has been crashing repeatedly. Many taxpayers report being unable to log in or submit forms properly.
Even those who had already filed their tax returns under the old system are now being asked to re-submit under the new rules. This, according to PCDMA, has created unnecessary confusion and stress.
Call for Deadline Extension
Valimuhammad emphasized that poor internet access in many regions is another hurdle. He argued that most taxpayers are willing to comply, but the system itself is making it nearly impossible.
To resolve the crisis, the PCDMA has appealed to the Ministry of Finance and the Prime Minister’s Office to extend the filing deadline to November 30, 2025. This would give taxpayers and consultants enough time to adjust to the new requirements.
He further advised the FBR to adopt long-term strategies for major reforms like property valuation, ideally through a 5–10 year roadmap, instead of sudden changes that create panic.
FAQs
1. What is PCDMA’s main demand?
The PCDMA wants the government to extend the income tax return filing deadline from September 30 to November 30, 2025.
2. Why is the extension being requested?
Because of last-minute changes in forms, technical glitches, and lack of time for taxpayers to adjust.
3. What new requirements were introduced?
Taxpayers must now declare all properties at their Estimated Current Market Value (ECMV) and list assets one by one.
4. Who is most affected by these changes?
Small and medium business owners, as they lack resources and time to adapt quickly.
5. What solution does PCDMA propose for the future?
A long-term roadmap of 5–10 years for major reforms, instead of sudden last-minute changes.
