FBR Considering Video Analytics System to Monitor Manufacturing Sectors

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) is evaluating the adoption of video analytics based production monitoring systems as an alternative to the existing Track and Trace System (TTS) currently deployed across multiple manufacturing sectors, sources familiar with the development informed ProPaksitani. While the initiative aims to explore technological diversity, the track and trace system has already demonstrated measurable success in ensuring transparency, curbing tax evasion, and improving compliance across key industries, the sources familiar with the matter said. The Track and Trace System, introduced by the FBR to enhance tax collection and production visibility, enables real-time monitoring of goods through the affixation of secure, machine-readable fiscal marks on each product. These tax stamps carry cryptographic security features that allow products to be verified and traced from the point of production to retail distribution. The system ensures end-to-end visibility and helps prevent counterfeiting, under-reporting, and illicit trade. On the contrary, the proposed video analytics approach relies on cameras and artificial intelligence to count products as they move along the production line. While it offers insight into production volume and operational efficiency, it does not authenticate products or extend monitoring beyond the factory premises. Industry observers note that this limitation restricts its potential for regulatory enforcement and tax validation. Moreover, by not suitably marking the products, visible deterrence and distinction of tax paid compliant products versus those produced by the informal sector cannot be ascertained by consumers, limiting its effectiveness along the supply chain.