ISLAMABAD (PEN) : The Punjab government has announced a province-wide initiative to register all unregistered restaurants and wedding halls, aiming to expand the tax base without increasing the financial burden on citizens.
The decision was approved by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz during a high-level meeting on Monday, where she instructed relevant authorities to implement the registration campaign targeting both small and large-scale businesses in the hospitality sector.
No New Taxes, Broader Tax Net
Rejecting proposals to raise taxes, CM Maryam emphasized the importance of bringing more businesses into the formal economy. “We won’t allow unnecessary burden on the people by raising taxes,” she stated. “It’s unacceptable that those who register face penalties while tax evaders continue to benefit.”
She stressed that the government’s approach would focus on equity and fairness in taxation. “Someone earning Rs. 200,000 pays tax while someone earning millions does not — that must change,” she said.
Departments Tasked With Expanding Revenue Base
The Chief Minister directed departments including the Punjab Revenue Authority and Mines & Minerals to explore untapped revenue streams and ensure compliance across sectors. The campaign aligns with the provincial government’s broader fiscal strategy to enhance revenue collection while protecting low- and middle-income citizens.
The new registration initiative is expected to formalize a large segment of the service industry that currently operates outside the regulatory framework, contributing to economic transparency and improved governance.
