ISLAMABAD — The Federal Board of Revenue collected Rs3.083 trillion during July–September 2026, exceeding its first-quarter target by Rs30 billion.
The collection was approximately 7% higher than the Rs2.889 trillion received in the corresponding period last year. FBR’s target for the quarter was Rs3.053 trillion.
Sales tax delivered the strongest performance. Collections reached Rs1.137 trillion against a target of Rs1.051 trillion, exceeding expectations by Rs86 billion.
Other major tax categories did not meet their individual targets.
Income tax brought in Rs1.437 trillion, falling Rs47 billion short of its target. Customs duty receipts reached Rs312 billion against a target of Rs320 billion, while federal excise duty collection stood at Rs197 billion, slightly below the Rs198 billion target.
This means the overall quarterly surplus was largely supported by stronger sales tax receipts rather than higher-than-expected collections across every category.
September alone contributed Rs1.360 trillion, exceeding the monthly target by Rs17 billion.
The tax authority also issued Rs203 billion in refunds and rebates during the quarter, compared with Rs159 billion in the same period a year earlier.
FBR faces a full-year revenue target of Rs15.264 trillion for FY2026–27. Meeting that target will require continued collection growth during the remaining nine months.
Tax revenue finances public services and government operations. When collections fall short, the government may face greater pressure to borrow or reduce spending.
The first-quarter result gives FBR a positive start, but the Rs30 billion surplus is relatively small compared with the full-year target.
Sustained revenue growth, including stronger performance in income tax and customs duties, will be important in determining whether the authority can meet its annual goal.
The Rs203 billion in refunds and rebates was Rs44 billion higher than in the corresponding quarter last year. Timely refunds can help businesses manage cash flow, particularly those awaiting repayment of eligible taxes.
The gap between the overall result and the individual tax categories shows why the headline surplus needs context. Sales tax performed strongly, but income tax and customs receipts still require attention.