QUETTA: In a significant move aimed at broadening the provincial tax base, the Balochistan Revenue Authority (BRA) has issued a formal directive requiring all marriage halls and event-related service providers operating within the province to register with the authority. This new mandate encompasses a wide range of businesses involved in event management, including not only marriage halls but also lawns, shamiana setup providers, decorators, and other related service facilitators.
The BRA’s decision comes as part of ongoing efforts to enforce the Balochistan Sales Tax on Services Act of 2015, which explicitly includes wedding and event arrangement services under its taxable categories. This legislation was designed to ensure that the flourishing event industry contributes its fair share to the provincial revenue, supporting broader economic development initiatives. Under the new guidelines, service providers are required to complete their registration with the BRA and fulfill all tax obligations as stipulated by provincial regulations.
Specifically, the tax framework has established a fixed rate of Rs10,000 per event or alternatively, 2 percent of the total service fee charged, whichever amount is higher. This dual-rate system aims to accommodate the varying scales of event operations, from smaller gatherings to large-scale weddings and ceremonies. The BRA has emphasized that all businesses must not only register but also consistently pay their due taxes and submit tax returns within the deadlines set forth by the authority.
Failure to comply with these requirements will result in strict consequences, including financial penalties and potential legal proceedings. The BRA has issued a stern warning to all marriage hall owners and event service providers, urging them to adhere to the tax laws promptly to avoid punitive actions. This enforcement drive is expected to bring more transparency and accountability to the sector, which has traditionally operated with limited oversight.
It is worth noting that this directive aligns with the provincial government’s broader austerity measures, which recently included the abolition of nearly 800 government posts as part of cost-cutting efforts. By expanding the tax net to include event services, the government aims to boost its revenue streams without placing additional burdens on salaried employees or essential public services. The BRA has highlighted that compliance with these tax regulations will play a crucial role in supporting Balochistan’s socio-economic progress and infrastructure development.
As the wedding and event industry continues to thrive in Balochistan, this move by the BRA signals a shift towards formalizing and regulating a sector that significantly contributes to the local economy. Stakeholders within the industry are now expected to adjust their operations accordingly, ensuring that their business practices align with the province’s legal and fiscal frameworks.
