The government expected to collect Rs5.147 trillion under non-tax revenue in the fiscal year 2025–26.
According to details surfaced on Wednesday, a significant portion – Rs2.4 trillion – will come from the State Bank of Pakistan's (SBP) profits. The documents said that Rs1.468 trillion will be raised through the petroleum levy, while revenue from the property sector is estimated at Rs519 billion. Additionally, Rs29.79 billion is projected to be collected under various fees, including the mobile levy.
Under the new Finance Bill, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) is expected to generate over Rs400 billion in additional taxes. The introduction of new taxes on digital platforms is projected to contribute Rs64 billion in revenue.
The budget proposes taxes on online businesses, services, e-commerce, and courier services. E-commerce platforms will be subject to an 18% sales tax, to be collected and deposited by courier and logistics service providers.
A new tax ranging from 0.25% to 5% has been imposed on digital services. Foreign online companies will be taxed at a flat 5% on digital payments. This tax will also apply to websites, mobile apps, and social media platforms. Services such as e-learning, telemedicine, and cloud computing are also included under this regime.
A tax of 0.25% to 2% is proposed on cash-on-delivery (COD) services provided by couriers. Unregistered online vendors will face a penalty of Rs1 million, while banks or courier companies failing to deduct the applicable taxes may face penalties equal to 100% of the amount due.
The concern has been raised that the new taxes on the digital economy may negatively impact youth-led online businesses, potentially slowing down growth in the digital and entrepreneurial sector.
