
FASTER system: FBR eases cap for deferred ST refunds
In this regard, the FBR has issued instructions to the field formations on processing of deferred refunds under the 'FASTER' system.
Under the new instructions, the FBR has relaxed refund processing limit of exporters other than five export sectors upto 10 percent.
FASTER-based: Refund processing limit be raised to 12pc, PBC urges FBR
According to the FBR's instructions, in pursuance of SRO 1507(I)/2024, the Board vide CRE-35 has determined lower capping for processing of refunds of exporters (other than five export-oriented sectors) at the rate of 2 percent, 3 percent, 4 percent and 8 percent of export value for processing through FASTER on the basis of their finished products.
Further, for processing of deferred Sales Tax refunds of Exporters (other than five export-oriented sectors) the Board has decided to fix upper capping up to 10% of export value (including the lower capping) or the amount of valid input tax actually consumed in exports, whichever is lower as uniform policy.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2025

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Moreover, Sajid Mahmood, Head of the Technology Transfer Department at the Central Cotton Research Institute, Multan, in a telephonic conversation with renowned cotton analyst Naseem Usman, stated that if Pakistan desires progress and adoption of modern technologies in the cotton sector, then it must ensure investment in research and development along with consistency in policy to adopt the Brazilian model. He emphasized that the remarkable technological advancement and productivity growth achieved by Brazil's cotton industry over the past two decades is not coincidental. Rather, it is the result of a systematic, well-coordinated, and policy-driven effort. Brazil has transformed its cotton sector into a globally competitive export force through an integrated agricultural strategy, strong collaboration between research institutions and the private sector, and practical steps to align farmers with modern farming practices. In this context, an analysis of Pakistan's cotton scenario clearly shows that we are far behind this model — not only technologically but also institutionally. Sajid Mahmood pointed out that it is essential to understand that mechanized farming does not merely mean using machines. It entails an integrated, scientific, and profitable link across all stages of the agricultural system — from land preparation, seed, fertilizers, pest and disease management, harvesting, and post-harvest handling. In Brazil, advanced practices such as precision farming, GPS-guided sowing, satellite-based crop monitoring, and especially cotton-picking machines are not just available but actively in use. In contrast, in Pakistan, most farmers still rely on traditional methods, and the institutions responsible for research and innovation suffer from severe financial constraints and policy neglect. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025