FBR Finalizes 18% Sales Tax on E-Commerce Platforms in Budget 2025-26

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has finalized a proposal to impose an 18% sales tax on major online platforms such as Daraz, OLX, Zameen, and PakWheels in the upcoming Finance Bill for 2025-26. The move is aimed at broadening the tax base and meeting the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) fiscal reform requirements.

According to sources, the measure is part of the government’s efforts to raise revenue and fulfill the IMF’s ambitious target of collecting Rs. 14.3 trillion in tax revenues for the next fiscal year. The proposed tax will apply to online buying and selling activities conducted through these e-commerce platforms.

This late-stage policy shift is expected to significantly impact Pakistan’s digital commerce ecosystem. However, the FBR believes it will help formalize the growing e-commerce sector and ensure more equitable tax contribution from all parts of the economy.