FBR’s New Policy to Tax Online Sellers Working From Home Challenged

The Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology expressed serious concerns over the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) imposing taxes on individuals selling goods from their homes through online platforms. The Committee Chairperson highlighted that many Pakistanis, especially women and small entrepreneurs, rely on home-based businesses and online sales. She stressed that taxing such activity could discourage entrepreneurship, particularly at a time when flood-affected communities need relief rather than added financial burdens. During the meeting, a debate emerged over whether e-commerce falls under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of IT or the Ministry of Commerce. The IT Secretary clarified that the new taxes were applied to e-commerce transactions, not IT services. However, Senator Afnanullah argued that e-commerce is inherently part of the IT ecosystem, warning that such taxation could stunt industry growth. The committee also emphasized the need for exemptions for residents of flood-affected regions. To resolve the matter, the committee decided to summon FBR officials to the next meeting to explain the taxation policy on e-commerce.