The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has withdrawn all its protest programs, including the ‘complete shutdown’ and ‘March to NBR,’ following assurances of resolution through mediation by an advisory committee and the business community. The announcement was made by Hasan Mahmud Tarek, president of the NBR Reform Unity Council, during a press conference on Sunday (June 29) night.
Hasan Mahmud Tarek stated, “Through discussions with the advisory committee and business community, we have received positive assurances regarding our demands. In the interest of the nation and the economy, we have decided to withdraw all protest programs. However, we will closely monitor the implementation of the government’s commitments.”
The NBR Reform Unity Council had been protesting for the removal of the current NBR chairman and demanding participatory reforms in the revenue sector. As part of the movement, a ‘complete shutdown’ was enforced across tax, customs, and VAT departments nationwide since June 28, significantly impacting revenue collection and import-export activities. The business community had urged for a swift resolution to the deadlock.
The government formed a five-member advisory committee, led by Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan, Advisor for Power, Energy, and Mineral Resources, to address the crisis. According to the government’s commitment, necessary amendments to the Revenue Policy and Management Ordinance will be made by July 31, 2025.
Sehela Siddiqa, general secretary of the NBR Reform Unity Council, said, “We seek a sustainable solution through dialogue with the government. Our movement was peaceful, and we have taken this decision in the interest of the public.” She added that a discussion meeting is scheduled for July 1, where final decisions on revenue reforms will be made with all relevant stakeholders.
This decision has raised hopes for the normalization of revenue collection and import-export activities across the country. Business leaders have welcomed the move and called for the immediate resumption of services.
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