Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities concerned to further expand the tax net to achieve tax revenue targets. Chairing a weekly meeting regarding matters related to Federal Board of Revenue in Islamabad today, he directed to intensify efforts to achieve eleven percent tax-to-GDP ratio target. The Prime Minister appreciated the FBR authorities for significantly reducing the duration of customs clearance through the use of modern technology and artificial intelligence and directed that the customs clearance period for imports and exports should be further reduced. He also directed to ensure tax enforcement in all sectors of the economy to increase government revenues. Shehbaz Sharif appreciated FBR and law enforcement agencies for their effective action against illegal cigarette factories. He directed the provincial governments to continue full cooperation with FBR in its actions against tax evaders and illegal factories. He also directed to ensure timely payment of sales tax refunds. During the meeting, the Prime Minister was briefed about the progress on the initiatives being taken to achieve tax revenue targets, digitization of the economy, and measures against tax evasion. It was informed that several focal persons have been appointed by the FBR and the Excise and Taxation Department to bring the tobacco sector into the tax net across the country. It was told that a large cache of illegal cigarettes has been seized in recent days as a result of effective actions. The Prime Minister was also briefed about the progress of pending tax cases in tribunals and various institutions.