ISLAMABAD - The government is considering to withdraw its decision of imposing 10% federal excise duty (FED) on cars with engine capacities exceeding 1,700cc.
The Senate’s Standing Committee on Industries and Production, on Wednesday, was informed that the 10 percent FED imposed on locally manufactured cars and SUVs, having engine capacity exceeding 1,700cc, would be withdrawn soon.
The government had imposed a 10% federal excise duty (FED) on locally manufactured cars of 1700cc and above in the recent Finance Supplementary Bill 2019.
Succumbing to the constant pressure of local auto manufacturers and assemblers, Advisor to the Prime Minister on Commerce, Abdul Razaq Dawood, whilst briefing the Senate Standing Committee on Industries and Production, said that the decision of imposing FED on locally manufactured vehicles was being revisited.
Committee Chairman Senator Ahmed Khan said he had been informed by the government functionaries that the duty would be withdrawn next week or in the following one.
However, the Engineering Development Board mentioned that the auto sector was not consulted when this decision was made in the second mini-budget.
It was also highlighted that the sales of cars and SUVs over 1,700 cc would decrease due to the imposition of the duty, which could eventually lead to a decline in government revenue. Besides, it was also a violation of Auto Policy 2016-21.