Electricity consumers across Pakistan are reportedly paying around Rs. 9 per unit in additional taxes, levies, and surcharges included in monthly power bills, increasing financial pressure on households and businesses already affected by inflation and rising energy costs.
According to reports, the Federal Board of Revenue continues to use electricity bills as a major channel for tax collection from consumers and commercial sectors.
Multiple Taxes Added to Electricity Bills
Several different taxes and charges are currently included in electricity bills across Pakistan, including:
- 18% General Sales Tax (GST)
- Income tax
- Advance income tax
- Additional levies and surcharges
These charges are applied on top of the base electricity tariff, fuel price adjustments, and other utility-related costs, significantly increasing the final bill amount paid by consumers.
Electricity Costs Continue to Rise
Reports suggest that electricity bills now contain nearly six different categories of taxes and levies, making the actual cost of electricity much higher than the original per-unit tariff.
Consumers across the country have expressed concerns about rising power bills, especially middle- and lower-income households struggling with increasing living expenses and inflation.
Businesses Warn of Economic Impact
Industrial and business sectors have also raised concerns over higher electricity costs, warning that expensive energy prices can reduce industrial competitiveness, slow production activity, and increase operational costs.
Some exporters and manufacturers believe continued increases in electricity-related taxes could negatively affect exports, investment, and employment opportunities in Pakistan’s economy.
Experts Call for Balanced Tax Reforms
Economic experts say tax collection remains important for improving government revenue and managing fiscal challenges. However, they warn that excessive reliance on electricity bills for revenue generation places additional financial pressure on ordinary citizens and businesses.
Analysts suggest that broader tax reforms, improved documentation, and a more balanced taxation system could help reduce the burden on electricity consumers while still supporting national revenue targets.
The issue continues to attract public attention as rising electricity prices remain one of the biggest economic concerns for consumers across Pakistan.
