PM appoints Dr. Najeeb Memon as first Director General of Tax Policy Office

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has appointed Dr. Najeeb Ahmed Memon as the first Director General of the newly established Tax Policy Office (TPO), a move aimed at separating tax policy from revenue administration, Dawn reported. 

The TPO, which will operate under the Finance Division, will now lead the preparation of the 2026-27 federal budget, removing the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) from the policy-making process. 

The TPO’s responsibilities include analyzing tax proposals through data modeling, revenue forecasting, and economic assessments, in addition to managing international tax treaties and obligations. 

The office will report directly to the Finance Minister, and staffing will be carried out with approval from the Establishment and Finance Divisions.

Although officially notified in February 2025, the office became operational following Dr. Memon’s appointment on Friday. His two-year appointment marks a significant step in the government’s efforts to enhance tax governance in line with International Monetary Fund (IMF) commitments.

Dr. Memon brings over 20 years of experience in tax administration, policy design, and research. His expertise spans income tax, VAT, and federal excise, having worked on international tax reform projects with institutions such as the World Bank, GIZ, HM Revenue & Customs, and Tax Inspectors Without Borders.

The federal cabinet may revise the structure and mandate of the TPO to enhance its effectiveness over time.