Islamabad, February 17, 2025 – A One-Day Executive Training on Tax Dispute Resolution Through ADR was successfully held today at COMSTECH here in Islamabad. The event was organized by the International Mediation and Arbitration Centre (IMAC), a project of the Ministry of Law & Justice, to enhance the understanding and application of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms in tax governance.
The training brought together senior justices, government officials, legal experts, business leaders, and tax professionals, fostering a constructive dialogue on the role of ADR in resolving tax disputes efficiently.
The Federal Minister for Law & Justice, while delivering his remarks as the Chief Guest, emphasized the importance of ADR in ensuring expeditious tax dispute resolution and reducing litigation burdens. “A well-structured ADR framework in tax administration is essential for fostering a business-friendly environment and improving investor confidence. The government is committed to promoting ADR mechanisms for efficient tax governance and dispute resolution,” he stated.
The Chairman, Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) acknowledged the need for alternative mechanisms in tax dispute resolution. “ADR provides an opportunity for taxpayers and tax authorities to resolve disputes amicably without prolonged litigation. FBR is committed to integrating ADR within its processes to ensure fair and transparent tax administration,” he remarked.
Dr. Umar A. Oseni, in his address, highlighted international best practices in tax dispute resolution and the benefits of ADR in reducing tax litigation. “The adoption of ADR in tax governance aligns Pakistan with global trends, ensuring efficiency, transparency, and economic growth,” he noted.
Mr. Mir Badshah Khan Wazir, Member Legal, FBR, discussed the operationalization of ADR within FBR and the steps being taken to institutionalize it. “It is imperative to develop a legal and procedural framework that enables ADR to function effectively within Pakistan’s tax administration system,” he emphasized.
Participants, including retired justices, senior tax officers, business leaders, and legal professionals, expressed their appreciation for the training. One participant, a retired High Court Justice, shared his insights: “ADR is a progressive step towards resolving tax disputes in a cost-effective and efficient manner. This training has provided valuable knowledge on practical implementation strategies.”
Another senior tax consultant remarked: “This session was enlightening, particularly the simulation exercises, which provided practical exposure to ADR mechanisms. Such initiatives should be conducted regularly to build capacity in the legal and tax fraternity.”
A Mr. Justice Muhammad Daud, a retired High judge delivered the Concluding Remarks on Institutionalizing ADR in Tax Administration, underscoring the need for continued efforts to strengthen ADR frameworks.
This executive training marked a significant step toward institutionalizing ADR in tax governance, fostering legal certainty, and strengthening Pakistan’s tax administration system.