Chairman of the Businessmen Panel (BMP) and former FPCCI President Mian Anjum Nisar has voiced strong criticism of the Tax Laws (Amendment) Ordinance 2025, declaring that it was enforced without consulting key stakeholders or holding any parliamentary debate. Speaking at a dinner hosted by Mian Nasser Hyatt Maggo, he warned that this move could harm the business environment and weaken the rule of law.
He described the extraordinary powers granted to tax authorities under the ordinance as a form of “economic terrorism” and vowed resistance, stating that the BMP would soon meet Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to discuss the matter.
The dinner was attended by major business leaders including Abdul Rahim Janoo, Zikriya Usman, Rafique Suleman, Haji Usman Ghani, Hanif Lakhani, Suleman Chawla, and Sultan Rehman, who shared a unified stance against the ordinance.
Mian Nasser Hyatt Maggo emphasized the ongoing struggles of importers, who are facing disruptions that raise costs and threaten supply chains. He urged the government to prioritize these challenges.
Abdul Rahim Janoo labeled the ordinance anti-economy and unconstitutional, warning that it discourages investment. He demanded equal incentives for rice exporters, who are working hard to boost Pakistan’s exports despite difficulties in the international market. He also expressed optimism about ongoing REAP efforts in Australia.
Rafique Suleman opposed the implementation of Sections 138(3A) and 140(6A) of the Income Tax Ordinance, which allow for immediate tax recovery even when courts have issued stays. He called this a violation of due process and judicial authority, contributing to a coercive tax environment.
Several leaders also praised the Pakistan Army, particularly COAS General Asim Munir, for strong national defense and morale-boosting leadership following India’s aggressive actions.
The gathering ended with a renewed commitment to protecting business interests and confirmed that a BMP meeting with the PM is imminent.
