The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has decided to implement online monitoring of business activities across Pakistan, making Point of Sale (POS) systems mandatory for more than 14 sectors.
According to a notification issued by the tax authority, hotels, restaurants, guest houses, marriage halls, marquees and race clubs have been directed to install POS systems to ensure digital monitoring of transactions. However, facilities without air conditioning will be exempted from this requirement.
The FBR has also ordered the installation of POS systems in vehicles operating within cities, while courier and cargo services, beauty parlours, massage centres and pedicure centres will be required to complete online registration.
Healthcare professionals, including dentists, physiotherapists, plastic and hair surgeons, and veterinary doctors, must install POS systems. Medical laboratories, X-ray units, CT scan and MRI centres have also been directed to comply. Private hospitals will fall under the new rule as well, although hospitals charging a fee of Rs500 will be exempted.
The notification further states that health clubs, gyms, swimming pools, multipurpose clubs, and polo clubs — both civil and non-civil — must also integrate POS systems. Renowned clubs such as Lahore Gymkhana, Islamabad Club, Karachi Gymkhana, Royal Palm Golf and Country Club, and Chenab Club have also been included in the directive.
Chartered accountants, cost management accountants, retailers, manufacturers and importers will be required to ensure online integration. Foreign exchange dealers and currency exchange companies must also install POS systems.
Private schools, colleges, universities and vocational training institutes have been brought under the new condition, though institutions charging a monthly fee of Rs1,000 will be exempted.
The FBR has invited stakeholders to submit recommendations on the proposed law within seven days.
