Punjab to Reportedly Bring 11 Businesses Under Tax Net

The Excise Department has proposed bringing 11 new categories—including private hospitals, laboratories, and event halls (marquees)—under the professional tax net. According to excise officials, the new categories will also include solar companies, foreign travel agents, and international franchises. Previously, these business types were not contributing to professional tax. The department has also recommended increasing the tax slabs for 10 existing categories. With the addition of new sectors and revised tax slabs, the government expects to generate an additional Rs700 million in revenue. Overall, the new tax structure is projected to raise approximately Rs2.35 billion. Currently, the government collects around Rs1.65 billion annually under professional tax. The Excise Department has submitted its recommendations to the government for implementation in the upcoming fiscal year.