PM Appoints Dr. Memon to Lead New Tax Policy Office

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has named Dr. Najeeb Ahmed Memon as the inaugural Director General of the newly formed Tax Policy Office (TPO), a pivotal step to decouple tax policy from revenue administration, according to Dawn.

Operating under the Finance Division, the TPO will spearhead the 2026-27 federal budget preparation, sidelining the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) from policy-making. The office is tasked with analyzing tax proposals through data modeling, revenue forecasting, and economic assessments, while overseeing international tax treaties and obligations.

Reporting directly to the Finance Minister, the TPO’s staffing will require approval from the Establishment and Finance Divisions.

Officially notified in February 2025, the TPO became operational with Dr. Memon’s Friday appointment for a two-year term, marking a critical advance in tax governance reforms aligned with International Monetary Fund (IMF) commitments.

Dr. Memon brings over 20 years of expertise in tax administration, policy design, and research, specializing in income tax, VAT, and federal excise. His experience includes collaborations with the World Bank, GIZ, HM Revenue & Customs, and Tax Inspectors Without Borders on global tax reform projects.

The federal cabinet may refine the TPO’s structure and mandate to amplify its impact over time.