FBR acknowledges the challenges of achieving a completely paperless tax system. Their recently finalized Stakeholder Engagement Plan outlines tax reform initiatives, including process automation. 

However, the report recognizes the need for physical documentation to maintain comprehensive case histories. It emphasizes a gradual shift towards electronic filing to ensure complete electronic access to historical records.

The Stakeholder Engagement Plan goes beyond automation and identifies several other areas for improvement.  Enhancing taxpayer outreach and education is crucial to address concerns and promote tax compliance. 

Effective collaboration with other government agencies is essential for seamless data sharing and enforcement. FBR also acknowledges the need for consistent policies and streamlined online systems to improve ease of doing business for taxpayers. Upgrading IT infrastructure and expediting export refunds, particularly for the textile sector, are additional priorities.

The Stakeholder Engagement Plan signifies FBR’s commitment to creating a more collaborative and efficient tax system. This approach balances automation with the need for documentation while addressing longstanding challenges faced by Pakistani taxpayers.