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Pakistan Lowers FBR Tax Target for FY26

by News

 

Pakistan Lowers FBR Tax Target for FY26 Amid Flood Damage and Privatization Delays

Pakistan’s government is reducing its Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) tax collection target for the current fiscal year by Rs300-500 billion, signaling significant economic pressure. The original goal of Rs14.13 trillion is now expected to be between Rs13.7 trillion and Rs13.9 trillion. This downward revision is a direct result of widespread flood damage and the failure to meet key deadlines for privatizing state-owned enterprises (SOEs).

Economic Fallout from Floods

The recent floods have severely impacted Pakistan’s agricultural sector, a cornerstone of the economy.1 Losses include approximately 15% of the rice crop, 5.7% of sugarcane, and 10% of cotton, in addition to extensive livestock damage.

This agricultural devastation is projected to have a cascading effect on the broader economy:

  • Real GDP growth is expected to drop to 3% from an initial forecast of 4.2%.
  • Inflation could rise to 8%, up from the previously projected 5-7%.

A senior official noted that revenue losses in the first half of the fiscal year could reach Rs300 billion, primarily due to a decline in sales tax revenue as the purchasing power of farmers decreases.

Privatization Challenges and Future Plans

The government has struggled to meet its privatization targets, a crucial part of its financial strategy and a condition of the ongoing IMF bailout program. Several key deadlines have been missed:

  • The privatization of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) was due by August 2025 but has been delayed.
  • The sales of First Women’s Bank and HBFC also failed to meet their May 2025 deadlines.

Despite these setbacks, the government is moving forward with other sales. A financial advisor has been hired for three power distribution companies—Iesco, Fesco, and Gepco—with bidding scheduled for December 2025.2 The privatization of Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited (ZTBL) is also being targeted for the end of the year.

 

Driving Force Behind Reforms

 

The government’s primary goal is to privatize profitable SOEs to reduce its commercial footprint and ease the financial burden on the state.3 Efforts are also focused on power sector reforms, including the privatization of distribution companies and the restructuring of the National Transmission Dispatch Company.4 These measures are critical for improving efficiency and ensuring the long-term viability of the power sector, which could indirectly boost overall revenue collection.

 

tax 2

ISLAMABAD: FBR Poised to Grant Limited Extension for Sales Tax Digital Invoicing Integration

by News

[ez-toc]ISLAMABAD – The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) is expected to grant a short extension in the deadline for registered persons to integrate their invoicing systems with the tax authority’s sales tax platform, it is learnt. Business circles have repeatedly sought a three-month extension to allow a smoother transition to the digital invoicing system. However, officials say the FBR is more likely to allow an additional 15 to 30 days rather than the full three months being demanded.

Business Community Requests Relief

In a recent communication, Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI) President Muhammad Jawed Bilwani urged Member Inland Revenue Operations to extend the integration deadline and to establish a facilitation desk at trade bodies to assist taxpayers with free-of-cost integration through Pakistan Revenue Automation Limited (PRAL). Bilwani noted that despite the business community’s willingness to comply with the new system, a significant number of taxpayers have been unable to complete registration through the four authorised integrators because of the sheer volume of applications within a very short timeframe.

Background of the Deadline

Under SRO 1413(I)/2025 dated August 1, 2025, deadlines for registration have already passed for the first three categories — all public companies, all other companies with turnover exceeding Rs1 billion as declared in their sales tax returns for the last twelve months, and all importers. Their deadline was August 10, 2025. From September 1, 2025, FBR field formations are legally allowed to start issuing the first penalty notice of Rs500,000 under Section 25A of the Sales Tax Act 1990 to all those registered persons who have not yet integrated their invoicing system with FBR or begun issuing Electronic Invoices.

Need for Flexible Implementation

Bilwani stressed that while large public companies and firms with turnover above one billion rupees are generally ready to comply with SRO 1413(I)/2025, many small, medium and seasonal importers cannot immediately make integration arrangements and start issuing Electronic Invoices. He said FBR should take this aspect into consideration before initiating penal action.

Proposed Facilitation Measures

To ease the transition, KCCI has proposed the establishment of an online Helpdesk at the chamber with a dedicated focal person from FBR accessible to members via Zoom during office hours. This would provide real-time guidance on technical issues and support taxpayers in completing the integration process without disruption. Bilwani maintained that a short extension would provide much-needed relief, encourage wider compliance and ensure smoother implementation of the digital invoicing system.

sbp 2

KARACHI:SBP Holds Policy Rate at 11% Amid Flood-Linked Inflation Risks

by News

[ez-toc]KARACHI – In line with market expectations, the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) decided on Monday to keep the policy rate unchanged at 11 percent, citing moderate inflation but rising risks from recent floods.

“The MPC decided to keep the policy rate unchanged at 11% in its meeting today,” said the Monetary Policy Statement (MPS).

The committee noted that headline inflation remained relatively moderate during July and August 2025, while core inflation continued to decline at a slower pace. Economic activity, reflected in high-frequency indicators including large-scale manufacturing (LSM), also gained momentum.

However, the MPC warned that the near-term macroeconomic outlook has weakened slightly due to the ongoing floods. The temporary yet significant supply shock, particularly to the crop sector, may push up food inflation and widen the current account deficit beyond earlier projections for FY26. Growth is also expected to moderate compared with previous estimates.

“In view of the evolving macroeconomic outlook and the flood-related uncertainty, the MPC deemed today’s decision appropriate to maintain price stability,” the statement said.

Key Developments Since the Last MPC Meeting

  • FX Reserves: SBP’s foreign exchange reserves remained stable despite net debt repayments and a current account deficit.

  • Inflation Expectations: Consumer and business inflation expectations inched up in September, according to the SBP-IBA sentiment surveys.

  • Tax Collection: FBR’s revenue during July–August 2025 fell slightly short of target but still showed strong year-on-year growth.

  • Global Trade: Revised US import tariffs have somewhat reduced global trade uncertainty.

Inflation Outlook

The MPC assessed that the real policy rate remains adequately positive to keep inflation within the medium-term target range of 5–7 percent, despite expected short-term volatility.

It noted that the recent floods have heightened uncertainty for near-term inflation, especially for food prices. Weekly SPI data already shows sharp increases in perishables and wheat products. However, part of this spike may be offset by recent favourable adjustments in electricity tariffs.

“On balance, inflation may cross the upper bound of the target range for most of the second half of FY26 before reverting to the target range in FY27,” the MPC said. It also flagged risks from the evolving flood situation, volatile global commodity prices, and possible unanticipated adjustments in energy tariffs.

Background & Market Expectations

At its previous policy meeting on July 30, 2025, the MPC had also kept the policy rate unchanged at 11% due to a worsened inflation outlook after higher-than-expected energy price adjustments.

Analysts widely predicted the status quo this time as well. A Topline Securities survey found 72% of market participants expected no change in the policy rate amid flood-related risks to food and overall inflation. Similarly, Arif Habib Limited (AHL) also forecast the SBP would maintain the rate, cautioning that external pressures may re-emerge as imports of agricultural commodities and cotton pick up to offset flood-related losses.

Recent Economic Indicators

Since the last MPC meeting:

  • The rupee has appreciated by 0.5%.

  • Domestic petrol prices have decreased by 3%.

  • International oil prices have fallen nearly 10% to around $63 per barrel.

According to PBS data, Pakistan’s headline inflation clocked in at 3% YoY in August 2025, down from 4.1% in July. The current account posted a deficit of $254 million in July 2025, following a surplus of $328 million in June.

SBP’s foreign exchange reserves rose by $34 million on a weekly basis, reaching $14.34 billion as of September 5, 2025. Total liquid foreign reserves stood at $19.68 billion, while net foreign reserves held by commercial banks were $5.34 billion.

Tax

Tax Planning Tips for Private Limited Companies in Pakistan

by Tax

Tax Planning Tips for Private Limited Companies in Pakistan

Understanding the Corporate Tax Landscape in Pakistan

Private limited companies in Pakistan are subject to corporate income tax under the Income Tax Ordinance, 2001. The general corporate tax rate is updated annually in the Federal Budget, and sector-specific rates may also apply (banks, insurance, exporters). A clear understanding of the applicable rates, filing deadlines, and reporting obligations is the foundation of any tax planning strategy.

Choosing the Right Corporate Structure

Although your entity is already a private limited company, reviewing its internal structure can create tax savings. You may set up subsidiary companies for different business lines to qualify for lower rates or incentives, or restructure shareholding to benefit from double tax treaties. Proper structuring also helps segregate taxable profits and losses for offsetting purposes.

Keeping Accurate and Timely Financial Records

Accurate recordkeeping enables you to claim all allowable expenses and defend your position in case of an audit.

  • Maintain double-entry bookkeeping and reconcile monthly.

  • Separate capital and revenue expenditures to avoid disallowance.

  • Use professional accounting software integrated with tax modules.

Leveraging Allowable Deductions and Expenses

Under Pakistani tax law, ordinary and necessary business expenses are deductible. Examples include:

  • Salaries and benefits paid to employees.

  • Rent, utilities, and office maintenance.

  • Depreciation on fixed assets using prescribed rates.

  • Bad debts written off per legal requirements.

  • Research and development costs.

Examples of Deductible vs. Non-Deductible Expenses

Expense Type Deductible (Yes/No) Notes
Employee salaries Yes Must have proper payroll records and tax withheld
Entertainment expenses Partially Subject to limits; lavish spending disallowed
Personal expenses No Non-business items not deductible
Capital expenditure No (directly) Claimed via depreciation allowances

Utilizing Tax Credits and Incentives

The Income Tax Ordinance and annual Finance Acts offer various credits and incentives:

  • Investment tax credit for purchase of plant and machinery.

  • Export incentives for companies earning foreign exchange.

  • Tax credits for enlisting on stock exchange under section 65C.

  • Tax credit for employment generation (if thresholds met).

Monitoring these incentives annually ensures you claim them before filing returns.

Effective Withholding Tax Management

Withholding tax (WHT) is pervasive in Pakistan and affects payments to suppliers, contractors, and employees. Over- or under-withholding can either create cash-flow issues or lead to penalties.

  • Maintain a WHT register.

  • Verify suppliers’ active taxpayer status on the FBR portal to apply correct rates.

  • File monthly WHT statements (Form 236, 237, etc.) timely.

Strategic Salary vs. Dividend Planning

Owner-managers of private limited companies often draw both salaries and dividends.

  • Salary is deductible for the company and taxed at individual slab rates.

  • Dividends are not deductible but attract a final withholding tax at a fixed rate.
    Balancing these two streams can reduce overall tax liability for both company and shareholders.

Salary vs. Dividend Tax Treatment in Pakistan

Aspect Salary Paid to Director/Owner Dividend Paid to Shareholder
Deductible for Company Yes No
Individual Tax Rate Progressive slabs (up to ~35%) Fixed withholding (e.g., 15%)
Withholding Obligation Yes (payroll taxes) Yes (final tax)

Managing Intercompany Transactions

If your private limited company transacts with related parties or overseas affiliates, Pakistan’s transfer pricing rules apply.

  • Document pricing policies with benchmarking studies.

  • Ensure arm’s-length pricing to avoid adjustments.

  • File transfer pricing documentation when required.

VAT/Sales Tax Considerations

Companies registered under the Sales Tax Act, 1990 must charge, collect, and deposit sales tax.

  • Claim input tax credits timely to reduce net payable tax.

  • Reconcile sales tax returns with financial statements.

  • Monitor changes in sales tax rates and exemptions (especially in provincial services taxes).

Preparing for Audits and Compliance Reviews

The FBR frequently issues notices for audits. Proactive preparation minimizes disruption.

  • Keep all invoices, vouchers, and bank statements organized.

  • Maintain board resolutions authorizing major expenses.

  • Respond to notices within stipulated timeframes to avoid penalties.

Technology and Automation for Tax Efficiency

Modern accounting and ERP systems can automate tax calculations, generate compliance reports, and integrate with the FBR’s e-filing portal.

  • Implement software that tracks withholding taxes, input tax credits, and depreciation schedules.

  • Use dashboards to forecast tax liability and cash-flow impact.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Mixing personal and business expenses, leading to disallowances.

  • Late filing of returns or withholding statements, triggering penalties.

  • Ignoring changes announced in annual Finance Acts.

  • Overlooking provincial taxes such as Sindh Sales Tax on Services or Punjab PRA levies.

  • Failing to update directors’ or shareholders’ tax profiles on the FBR portal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the corporate tax rate for private limited companies in Pakistan?
The general corporate tax rate is updated in each Federal Budget (for FY2024–25 it is around 29–30% for non-banks). Always check the latest Finance Act.

Can a company carry forward losses?
Yes. Business losses may generally be carried forward for up to six tax years and set off against future profits.

Are there tax benefits for small and medium enterprises?
The government sometimes introduces reduced rates or simplified schemes for SMEs. Verify annually.

Do private limited companies need to deduct tax on payments to suppliers?
Yes. Withholding tax obligations apply on payments such as contracts, services, rent, and salaries, subject to thresholds.

How can companies claim tax credits for new investments?
Keep invoices, payment proofs, and ensure compliance with conditions in the relevant section of the Income Tax Ordinance when filing returns.

Key Takeaways

  • Understand Pakistan’s evolving corporate tax environment and plan annually.

  • Maintain clean books and file returns and withholding statements on time.

  • Maximize allowable deductions, credits, and incentives to reduce tax.

  • Balance salaries and dividends strategically to minimize total tax cost.

  • Use technology and expert advice to stay compliant and efficient.

secp logo

How to Add or Remove a Director After Incorporation

by LEAPSECP

How to Add or Remove a Director After Incorporation

Table of Contents

  • Why Directors Matter in a Company

  • Legal Framework Governing Director Changes

  • Key Reasons to Add or Remove a Director

  • Pre-Change Considerations

  • How to Add a Director After Incorporation

  • How to Remove a Director After Incorporation

  • Documentation Checklist

  • Comparison Table: Adding vs Removing a Director

  • Compliance, Reporting, and Timelines

  • Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

  • FAQs

  • Key Takeaways

Why Directors Matter in a Company

Directors act as fiduciaries, shaping the company’s policy and strategy. They oversee compliance with corporate law, protect shareholders’ interests, and ensure financial transparency. Without active directors, a company cannot meet statutory obligations or file required reports. Bringing in or removing a director can directly affect governance quality, access to funding, and even brand credibility.

Legal Framework Governing Director Changes

Director appointments and removals are governed by company law in the jurisdiction of incorporation. For example:

  • In the US, state corporation statutes require director details to be maintained with the Secretary of State.

  • In the UK, the Companies Act 2006 mandates notifying Companies House of changes within 14 days.

  • In India, the Companies Act 2013 requires filing DIR-12 within 30 days of appointment or resignation.

You must review your jurisdiction’s articles of incorporation, bylaws, and statutory requirements before making changes.

Key Reasons to Add or Remove a Director

  • Bringing in specific expertise (finance, marketing, legal).

  • Filling a vacancy due to death, resignation, or disqualification.

  • Meeting statutory minimum number of directors.

  • Removing non-performing or inactive directors.

  • Transitioning ownership or preparing for investment rounds.

Pre-Change Considerations

  • Shareholder Approval: Check if shareholder consent is required under bylaws or shareholders’ agreements.

  • Articles of Incorporation: Confirm the minimum and maximum number of directors allowed.

  • Conflict of Interest: Assess whether new directors have conflicts that could impact decision-making.

  • Background Checks: Conduct due diligence to verify the credentials and reputation of incoming directors.

How to Add a Director After Incorporation

  1. Review Governing Documents: Check the articles of incorporation, bylaws, and shareholder agreements to confirm the appointment process.

  2. Obtain Consent: Secure written consent from the new director acknowledging appointment and duties.

  3. Board or Shareholder Resolution: Pass a resolution approving the appointment.

  4. Update Statutory Registers: Enter the director’s details in the register of directors.

  5. Notify Authorities: File the required form (e.g., Form DIR-12 in India or a Change of Directors form with Companies House in the UK).

  6. Amend Banking and Contracts: Update authorized signatories and notify banks, vendors, and clients where necessary.

Sample Board Resolution for Appointment

Resolution Element Details Example
Title Resolution to Appoint Director
Effective Date 1 October 2025
Director Name Jane Smith
Authority Granted Signing contracts, opening bank accounts, representing company

How to Remove a Director After Incorporation

  1. Identify Grounds for Removal: Resignation, disqualification, expiry of term, or removal by shareholders.

  2. Check Bylaws: Confirm voting thresholds and notice requirements.

  3. Obtain Written Resignation: If voluntary, request a resignation letter from the director.

  4. Pass Resolution: Adopt a board or shareholder resolution accepting the resignation or removal.

  5. File with Authorities: Submit the required form (e.g., DIR-12, Form 288b in the UK) within statutory time limits.

  6. Update Records: Amend the register of directors, company website, and external communications.

Sample Board Resolution for Removal

Resolution Element Details Example
Title Resolution to Remove Director
Effective Date 1 October 2025
Director Name John Doe
Reason for Removal Resignation/Non-performance/Legal disqualification

Documentation Checklist

  • Copy of the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws.

  • Board or shareholder meeting notices and minutes.

  • Written consent of the incoming director.

  • Resignation letter or removal notice for outgoing director.

  • Statutory forms (e.g., DIR-12, Form 288b).

  • Updated Register of Directors.

  • Identification and address proof of the new director.

Comparison Table: Adding vs Removing a Director

Aspect Adding a Director Removing a Director
Authority Required Board/Shareholder Resolution Board/Shareholder Resolution
Consent Needed From new director From outgoing director or due process notice
Statutory Filing Appointment form (DIR-12, Companies House form) Removal/Resignation form (DIR-12, Form 288b)
Timeline Within 14–30 days depending on jurisdiction Within 14–30 days depending on jurisdiction
Register Update Add name and details Strike out name and details

Compliance, Reporting, and Timelines

  • File changes promptly to avoid penalties.

  • Update tax registrations and licenses if directors are listed as responsible persons.

  • Notify banks, regulators, and contractual partners.

  • Maintain meeting minutes to evidence compliance.

  • Some jurisdictions impose fines or late fees if director changes aren’t reported within the statutory period.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

  • Ignoring Bylaws: Always review internal governance documents first.

  • Late Filings: Submit required forms within the statutory period to avoid penalties.

  • Incomplete Records: Keep full copies of consents, resolutions, and filings.

  • Skipping Background Checks: Vet new directors to protect the company’s reputation.

  • Failing to Notify Third Parties: Banks and suppliers may still treat an outgoing director as authorized if not formally informed.

FAQs

Q1. Can a sole director resign if no replacement is appointed?
No. In most jurisdictions, a company must appoint a new director before the sole director resigns to avoid non-compliance.

Q2. Is shareholder approval always necessary to add a director?
Not always. Some bylaws empower the board to appoint interim directors, but shareholder ratification may be required later.

Q3. How quickly must changes be filed?
Typically 14 to 30 days depending on the jurisdiction. Check your local law.

Q4. Can a director be removed without their consent?
Yes, if permitted under the company’s bylaws and local law (e.g., by shareholder resolution with requisite notice).

Q5. Do director changes affect tax filings?
Sometimes. If directors are registered as responsible persons for tax accounts, you must update the tax authority.

Key Takeaways

  • Always start by reviewing your articles of incorporation, bylaws, and statutory requirements.

  • Obtain proper resolutions and written consents before making changes.

  • File statutory forms promptly to stay compliant.

  • Keep detailed records for audits, investors, and legal protection.

  • Notify banks, regulators, and partners about director changes to prevent confusion.

fbr

ISLAMABAD: FBR Outlines Ambitious Plan to Lift Pakistan’s Tax-to-GDP Ratio to 18%

by News

ISLAMABAD – The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) on Wednesday briefed top business leaders on a wide-ranging transformation plan designed to boost Pakistan’s tax-to-GDP ratio from the current 10.24 percent to 18 percent over the medium term.

According to the roadmap, FBR’s direct share is projected to rise to 14 percent, with provincial revenues contributing an additional three percent and the petroleum levy one percent, bringing the total to the government’s 18 percent target.

Officials acknowledged that Pakistan faces a significant shortfall in major tax areas. The FBR intends to address this gap by rolling out digital systems, modern audit practices and streamlined processes.

The high-level session was chaired by FBR Chairman Rashid Mahmood and attended by representatives from the Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI), the Pakistan Business Council (PBC) and other major business groups.

Member Inland Revenue Operations Dr Hamid Ateeq Sarwar delivered a detailed presentation on how the transformation plan—approved by the prime minister in October 2024—is being implemented. The reforms focus on three pillars: people, technology and processes.

The FBR is significantly enhancing its institutional capacity by hiring around 1,600 auditors to strengthen audit coverage and compliance. These new recruits will be trained at leading universities to bring skills and standards closer to those of large corporate organisations. Recruitment is being done on merit, with integrity checks built in, while a new reward-and-rating system will offer performance-based incentives to officers.

Participants were also given live demonstrations of technology-driven initiatives across various sectors. Officials said these reforms have already helped lift the FBR’s tax-to-GDP ratio from 8.8 percent in FY2023–24 to 10.24 percent in FY2024–25.

New measures such as Faceless Customs Appraisement, though still in its early stages, have increased revenue per GD by 17.3 percent and improved customs efficiency at ports by cutting dwell time and demurrage costs. In addition, stepped-up enforcement actions have produced eight times more revenue in FY2024–25 compared to the previous year.

Chairman Mahmood emphasised that taxpayer facilitation remains a core priority. A dedicated facilitation division has been established at the Karachi Large Taxpayers Office, where senior officers will personally handle taxpayers’ issues. He also proposed the creation of a joint committee of the PBC, OICCI and FBR to resolve valuation rulings and other policy matters in a collaborative way.

The meeting ended with both the FBR and business representatives expressing confidence that sustained reforms and stakeholder engagement will help achieve the government’s ambitious revenue targets.

fbr 2

ISLAMABAD: FBR Showcases Major Gains from Ongoing Transformation Drive

by FBRNews

ISLAMABAD – The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has announced substantial progress under its wide-ranging transformation programme, approved by the Prime Minister in October 2024, aimed at modernising Pakistan’s top tax authority through reforms in people, technology and processes.

Member Inland Revenue Operations Dr. Hamid Ateeq Sarwar gave a detailed briefing to senior business leaders, explaining how the measures underway are reshaping the way the FBR functions and improving its capacity to collect taxes more efficiently and transparently.

One of the key pillars of the plan is strengthening human resources. The FBR is in the process of recruiting around 1,600 auditors to expand its audit coverage. Newly inducted officers will receive advanced training at leading universities to align professional standards with those of large corporate organisations. Appointments are being made on an integrity-first basis and supported by a new Reward and Rating System that offers attractive performance-linked incentives to high-performing officers.

On the technology front, the FBR has rolled out digital production monitoring in high-revenue sectors such as sugar, fertiliser, cement, beverages, tobacco, poultry and textiles. By integrating multiple data sources and digitising processes, the authority expects to link real economic activity with tax return filings, spot tax evasion more quickly and use AI-driven risk parameters to select audit cases objectively.

Dr. Sarwar emphasised that these interventions are designed to boost efficiency while improving transparency and accountability. Participants at the session were shown live demonstrations of technology-based solutions and praised the pace of reform.

The plan is already yielding tangible results. Pakistan’s tax-to-GDP ratio has risen from 8.8% in FY2023–24 to 10.24% in FY2024–25. The recently introduced Faceless Customs Appraisement initiative has increased revenue per Goods Declaration (GD) by 17.3%, while reforms in customs operations have reduced port dwell time and cut demurrage costs for importers. Enforcement drives have also gained momentum, with revenue from enforcement actions rising eightfold compared to last year.

As part of its taxpayer facilitation efforts, the FBR has set up a dedicated Facilitation Division at the Large Taxpayers Office (LTO) Karachi, where senior officers will personally handle taxpayers’ issues. Chairman FBR Rashid Mahmood proposed forming a joint committee of representatives from the Pakistan Business Council (PBC), the Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce & Industry (OICCI) and the FBR to collaboratively resolve issues such as valuation rulings and other policy matters.

Business leaders welcomed the reforms, saying they would help broaden the tax base while reducing the compliance burden on honest taxpayers. Concluding the session, the Chairman thanked participants for their input and reaffirmed the FBR’s commitment to continuous stakeholder engagement. Representatives from both the PBC and OICCI applauded the initiative and called for regular dialogue between the business community and the tax authority.

secp logo

Why Did SECP Reject My Company Name? (Common Reasons & Fixes)

by LEAPSECP

Why Did SECP Reject My Company Name? (Common Reasons & Fixes)

Introduction

You’ve gone to the Securities & Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) e-Services portal, entered your dream company name, and clicked “Reserve.” Instead of an approval email, you receive a rejection notice. This happens more often than you might think. SECP enforces strict guidelines for company names to protect the public, prevent confusion, and comply with the Companies Act, 2017. Knowing the common reasons for rejection—and how to fix them—can save you time and frustration.

How SECP Reviews a Company Name

SECP’s automated and manual checks examine proposed names for legal compliance, distinctiveness, and suitability. The Companies (Incorporation) Regulations, 2017, and the “Company Name Guidelines” posted on SECP’s website set out the rules. Applications that don’t meet the criteria are either rejected outright or returned with objections.

Common Reasons SECP Rejects Company Names

1. Name Already Reserved or Registered

SECP won’t approve a name identical or deceptively similar to an existing company’s name. This includes different spellings or minor changes that don’t change the pronunciation.

Fix: Search the SECP “Company Name Availability” database before applying. Make sure your name is unique by adding distinctive words or changing its core element.

2. Use of Prohibited Words

Certain words are restricted or banned unless you have government approval. Examples include:

Restricted Words Why Restricted
“Pakistan,” “National,” “Federal” Suggests government affiliation
“Bank,” “Insurance,” “Trust” Regulated sectors, require licenses
“Foundation,” “Council,” “Bureau” May imply public or statutory body
“Cooperative,” “Union” Reserved for specific legal forms

Fix: Avoid restricted words unless you have written permission from the relevant ministry or regulator. Attach the approval letter when applying.

3. Offensive or Misleading Terms

Names that are vulgar, offensive, or likely to deceive the public about the nature of your business are rejected.

Fix: Choose professional, clear, and culturally appropriate wording.

4. Inclusion of a Trademarked Term

If your name includes a well-known brand or trademark without permission, SECP may reject it to avoid IP disputes.

Fix: Either obtain a “No Objection Certificate” from the trademark owner or pick a completely original term.

5. Wrong Suffix for Company Type

Private companies must end with “(Private) Limited” or “(SMC-Private) Limited.” Public companies must use “Limited.” Using the wrong suffix results in rejection.

Fix: Ensure your name ends with the correct legal ending based on your proposed company structure.

6. Lack of Relevance for Section 42 Non-Profit Companies

For non-profit companies, the name must reflect charitable or not-for-profit purposes. A commercial-sounding name may be rejected.

Fix: Add words like “Foundation,” “Association,” or “Society” that signal non-profit nature.

7. Misuse of Foreign Words or Transliteration

Names with foreign words may be rejected if SECP can’t verify their meaning or they translate into something restricted.

Fix: Provide a translation/meaning in your application or choose a word clearly acceptable in English or Urdu.

8. Too Generic or Single Letter/Word Names

SECP discourages overly generic names like “ABC Traders” or “Global Services.”

Fix: Add unique identifiers—industry, founder name, location—to make the name distinctive.

How to Fix a Rejected Name Application

Step 1 – Read the Objection Notice Carefully

SECP usually states the reason for rejection. This helps you target the problem instead of guessing.

Step 2 – Use SECP’s Name Availability Search

Double-check for similar names. Adjust spelling, order of words, or add distinguishing elements.

Step 3 – Avoid Prohibited Words

Remove or replace restricted terms. If necessary, get the required approval letters.

Step 4 – Consider a Completely Different Name

Sometimes it’s faster to start fresh rather than tweak a problematic name.

Step 5 – Reapply Promptly

You can submit a new name reservation request through e-Services. Pay the fee again and upload any supporting documents.

Tips for Picking an SECP-Approved Name

  • Use at least two words: a distinctive part plus your business activity (e.g., “Bluefin Technologies”).

  • Check SECP’s list of prohibited words before applying.

  • Conduct a basic trademark search at IPO Pakistan to avoid IP conflicts.

  • Keep the name culturally sensitive and professional.

  • Use the correct legal suffix (“Private Limited,” “Limited,” etc.).

Costs and Timelines

Action Fee Timeline
Name reservation (standard) PKR 200–300 Usually 1–2 working days
Name reservation (urgent) PKR 500+ Same day or next day

If rejected, you must file a new request and pay the fee again.

Benefits of Getting the Name Right the First Time

  • Faster incorporation without delays.

  • Less chance of rebranding later.

  • Stronger credibility with banks, customers, and investors.

  • Clearer trademark protection for your brand.

Conclusion

SECP’s name approval process protects businesses and the public by ensuring that company names are distinctive, lawful, and non-misleading. Most rejections stem from similarity to existing names, prohibited words, or incorrect suffixes. By checking availability, avoiding restricted terms, and aligning your name with your business type, you can increase your chances of a first-time approval and speed up your company incorporation.

SBP

KARACHI: Pakistan’s Public Debt Climbs to Rs77.9trn Despite Record Early Retirements in FY25

by News

KARACHI – Pakistan’s total public debt stock expanded sharply by nearly Rs9 trillion in Fiscal Year 2024–25 (FY25) as the federal government leaned heavily on both domestic and external borrowing to bridge its budget deficit.

According to data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) on Tuesday, the central government’s overall debt – which includes domestic and external obligations – grew by 13 percent during FY25. Total liabilities rose to Rs77.888 trillion by June 2025, up from Rs68.914 trillion a year earlier, reflecting an increase of Rs8.974 trillion.

Market observers noted that the 13 percent debt growth rate is running ahead of Pakistan’s nominal GDP growth of around 8 percent. As a result, the country’s debt-to-GDP ratio edged up to 73.2 percent in FY25, according to estimates by Topline Securities.

Despite the sharp rise in the overall debt stock, analysts said the government has demonstrated a more proactive debt management approach compared to previous years. In a landmark move, the federal government undertook early retirements worth over Rs2.6 trillion, aided by higher SBP profits transferred to the treasury.

According to Khurram Schehzad, Advisor to the Finance Minister, the Ministry of Finance in the first half of FY25 retired Rs1 trillion of domestic commercial debt ahead of schedule — the first such large-scale prepayment operation in Pakistan’s history.

Further, the government made an additional early retirement of Rs500 billion on June 30, 2025, followed by another repayment of Rs1.133 trillion on August 29, 2025 through the Debt Management Office. Combined, these operations brought total early retirement of SBP-related debt to Rs1.633 trillion.

Including both the central bank and commercial market components, Pakistan’s total early debt retirements within less than a year now exceed Rs2.6 trillion — an unprecedented milestone in the country’s fiscal management history.

Tax

FBR Clarifies Federal Excise Duty Not Counted in Tax Expenditure for FY2025

by FBRNews

ISLAMABAD – The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has clarified that Federal Excise Duty (FED) does not fall within the definition of “tax expenditure” and has therefore been excluded from the recently issued Tax Expenditure Report 2025.

The report, released this week, presents updated estimates of Pakistan’s tax expenditures for Fiscal Year 2023–24. According to the FBR, total tax expenditure during the period is estimated at Rs2.43 trillion, covering concessions and exemptions in income tax, sales tax, and customs duty.

However, FED – a levy imposed on a specific range of products and services – is treated differently. The FBR explained that unlike general taxes, which often include exemptions, exclusions, credits, or allowances that reduce potential revenue, Federal Excise Duty is a targeted charge designed for selected sectors and activities. Because it is not structured to provide broad-based concessions or preferential treatments, it does not qualify as a tax expenditure under international standards.

“Federal Excise Duty is a separate, focused levy that does not share the characteristics of tax expenditures, such as exemptions or credits,” the report states. “Accordingly, it has not been incorporated into the tax expenditure framework for FY2025.”

The FBR also highlighted that this approach aligns with best practices adopted in many other jurisdictions, where excise duties are considered distinct from mainstream tax concessions. By keeping FED outside the scope of its tax expenditure calculations, the FBR aims to present a clearer and more transparent picture of the government’s revenue forgone through policy-based relief measures.

This clarification underscores the FBR’s ongoing efforts to improve reporting standards and enhance transparency in Pakistan’s fiscal policy. The agency has been issuing tax expenditure reports annually to quantify the revenue impact of tax incentives and exemptions granted by the government.