In a landmark step toward strengthening relations with the international diplomatic community, the Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO) of Pakistan has formally inaugurated the Diplomatic Grievance Redressal Cell at its Secretariat in Islamabad. The initiative is a first of its kind, aimed at addressing issues of tax maladministration faced by diplomats and international organizations in Pakistan.
DG Trainings OIC Ombudsman Association and Advisor Customs at FTO Dr. Arslan Subuctageen addressed seminar hosted by Federal Tax Ombudsman Secretariat Islamabad.
In his keynote address, Honourable Federal Tax Ombudsman Dr. Asif Mahmood Jah reaffirmed the FTO’s commitment to facilitating both the diplomatic corps and overseas Pakistanis. “The establishment of this dedicated cell reflects our resolve to ensure transparency, accountability, and prompt redressal of legitimate grievances faced by diplomats,” he stated. He acknowledged the increasing number of tax-related complaints from embassies and emphasized the importance of a centralized redressal platform.
Distinguished Participation
The event was attended by representatives from numerous embassies and international missions, including the Austrian Embassy, Australian High Commission, Embassy of Greece, Embassy of Germany, Embassy of the Netherlands, EU Delegation, Embassy of Poland, Embassy of Switzerland, and others.
Educational Insights and Legal Framework
Mr. Jovindah gave an engaging presentation tracing the evolution of the ombudsman institution, from its early foundations under Caliph Omar (R.A.) to its modern structure as seen in over 140 countries today. He underscored the objectives of the new Cell—ensuring diplomatic confidence, enhancing transparency, and providing personalized grievance handling mechanisms.
Dr. Arslan Subuctageen elaborated on the Customs Act provisions for diplomats, including: Duty-free import of one personal-use vehicle, A second vehicle allowed if the spouse holds a diplomatic card , Conditions on vehicle disposal and applicable depreciation for tax purposes.
Almas Ali Jovineah, head of the Diplomatic Grievances Redressal Cell at FTO said that the FTO has remarkable history of success during last few years as it has received more than 10 thousand Tax related complaints in the last fiscal year.
Mr. Khalid Javed, the registrar at FTO highlighted the sales tax and excise duty exemptions, explaining: Diplomats can claim zero-rated sales tax on local purchases exceeding Rs. 10,000 with a valid exemption certificate, Federal Excise Duty (FED) exemptions are conditionally available on imports, Refunds for erroneous payments can be facilitated via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
A dynamic Q&A session allowed diplomatic representatives to voice specific concerns. Attendees also received the newly launched “Manual on Taxpayers’ Rights” published by the FTO.
In his concluding remarks, Dr. Jah called upon all diplomatic missions to approach the FTO without hesitation:
“We are here to serve and protect your rights. Harassment or delays by tax authorities must not go unaddressed. Our doors are open to every diplomat seeking justice.”
