PTBP Web Desk
Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, reaffirmed the government’s dedication to reforming Pakistan’s tax system to promote efficiency, transparency, and equity. During a meeting with Coca-Cola İçecek (CCI) executives, the minister emphasized the importance of leveraging technology to eliminate human intervention, reduce corruption, and foster a fair tax environment.
Addressing the challenges in Pakistan’s taxation system, Senator Aurangzeb stressed the need for a modernized and digitalized framework. According to the minister, the government remains resolute in its goal to increase the tax-to-GDP ratio by expanding the tax base and alleviating the disproportionate burden on organized sectors such as manufacturing and salaried classes.
The government’s reform agenda includes people-centered processes powered by end-to-end digitalization. This approach is expected to bring much-needed transparency, minimize inefficiencies, and create a tax system that resonates with fairness and equity.
The meeting with Karim Yahi, Global CEO of Coca-Cola İçecek, and his delegation, including Ahmet Kursad Ertin (Regional Director, South Asia and Middle East), Sunay Sanli (General Manager, CCI Pakistan), and Syed Omar (Director of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability, CCI Pakistan), focused on CCI’s contributions to Pakistan’s economy and future opportunities for collaboration.
Senior officials from the Finance Division and the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) were also present.
The delegation provided an in-depth overview of CCI’s operations in Pakistan, which include seven state-of-the-art production facilities. These facilities not only contribute significantly to Pakistan’s economy but also create thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities. Additionally, CCI emphasized its commitment to sustainability and its vision for expanding operations in Pakistan.
Senator Aurangzeb lauded Coca-Cola İçecek for its pivotal role in driving economic growth, promoting sustainable practices, and generating employment. He highlighted the government’s dedication to fostering an investor-friendly climate that encourages innovation, growth, and sustainability.
“The Government of Pakistan deeply values the contributions of multinational corporations like Coca-Cola İçecek in strengthening our economy and generating employment. We are committed to ensuring a business environment that promotes innovation, growth, and sustainability,” stated the minister.
The meeting also delved into taxation policies and their implications for the beverage sector. Senator Aurangzeb reiterated the government’s commitment to equitable taxation that not only ensures sustainable revenue generation but also supports industrial growth.
He acknowledged the proactive efforts of Coca-Cola İçecek in engaging with the government on policy matters and stressed the importance of aligning business practices with national economic objectives. “Dialogue between the government and businesses is essential to achieving mutually beneficial outcomes,” remarked the finance minister.
Both parties concluded the meeting by emphasizing the need for continued stakeholder engagement. This collaboration is expected to pave the way for a more robust policy framework aimed at sustainable development and long-term economic growth.
Coca-Cola İçecek’s proactive engagement reflects the company’s commitment to contributing to Pakistan’s socio-economic development. Through investments, employment opportunities, and sustainability initiatives, CCI has established itself as a key player in Pakistan’s industrial and economic landscape.
