The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has barred electricity and gas distribution companies (DISCOs and GASCOs) from independently changing National Tax Numbers (NTNs) or Sales Tax Registration Numbers (STRNs) on industrial connections without prior approval from the Commissioner Inland Revenue.
The directive, issued through Sales Tax Circular No. 3 of 2025, introduces a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to ensure proper verification before any modification of tax details on industrial electricity or gas connections. The move aims to prevent misuse of industrial utility connections and strengthen tax compliance mechanisms.
According to the FBR, registered persons seeking changes in their NTN or STRN must formally apply to the concerned Commissioner Inland Revenue, who will verify all particulars, including physical inspection of business premises, before issuing a written order to the respective utility company.
An FBR spokesperson stated,
“No utility company is authorized to alter tax registration details without the Commissioner’s written approval. This measure ensures transparency and protects against potential fraud or misuse of tax identities.”
The decision underscores the FBR’s ongoing efforts to tighten administrative controls, enhance data verification, and safeguard revenue integrity, particularly in the industrial sector where tax evasion risks are higher.