Karachi, April 23, 2025 – FBR probes fashion designer Nomi Ansari for evading Rs1.25 billion in sales tax, launching a high-profile investigation into his financial dealings. The case, filed by the Corporate Tax Office (CTO) in Karachi, marks a significant escalation in Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to curb tax fraud among prominent business figures.
Raids and Seizures Uncover Evidence
Following a tip-off and preliminary inquiries, FBR authorities secured search warrants from a local magistrate. Coordinated raids hit Ansari’s manufacturing in Mehran Town, Korangi, and retail outlets in Karachi’s upscale DHA, targeting illegal operations.. During the operations, officials confiscated financial documents and records that allegedly point to deliberate tax evasion.
An FBR spokesperson confirmed that the seized materials are under review to determine the full extent of the discrepancies. “The evidence gathered so far supports claims of significant sales tax violations,” the spokesperson stated, emphasizing that the agency is committed to pursuing all leads in the case.
Tax Demand Issued, Legal Action Looms
The FBR has issued a formal tax demand notice to Ansari, requiring immediate compliance. Sources within the agency indicate that the designer, who is reportedly overseas, could face arrest upon his return to Pakistan. If apprehended, he is expected to be brought before the Customs and Taxation Court for further proceedings.
The allegations center on unreported sales and failure to adhere to tax regulations, which authorities claim enabled Ansari to avoid substantial tax liabilities. The Rs1.25 billion figure underscores the scale of the alleged fraud, positioning this case as one of the largest tax evasion probes in Pakistan’s fashion industry.
Part of a Nationwide Crackdown
The action against Ansari is part of a broader FBR initiative to clamp down on tax evasion across various sectors. With new directives from the government, regional tax offices have intensified scrutiny of high-profile individuals and businesses suspected of financial misconduct. The FBR has vowed to pursue all violators, regardless of their status or influence.
“This case reflects our zero-tolerance policy toward tax evasion,” an FBR official remarked. “We are sending a clear message that no one is above the law.”
A History of Non-Compliance
This is not the first time Ansari has come under the FBR’s radar. Earlier in February 2025, the CTO Karachi temporarily sealed several of his retail outlets due to non-compliance with sales tax regulations, including failure to integrate with the mandatory Point-of-Sale (POS) system. The closures were lifted after Ansari’s team reportedly promised to address the violations, but the latest allegations suggest deeper systemic issues.
Industry Impact and Public Reaction
Ansari, celebrated for his vibrant bridal collections and couture designs, has long been a staple in Pakistan’s fashion scene, dressing celebrities and elites both domestically and internationally. The news of his alleged involvement in a massive tax scandal has sent shockwaves through the industry, raising questions about financial transparency among high-end fashion brands.
Public reactions have been mixed, with some expressing disappointment over the tarnishing of Ansari’s reputation, while others view the FBR’s actions as a necessary step toward accountability. Social media platforms are abuzz with discussions, as fans and critics alike await further developments.
What’s Next?
As the investigation unfolds, the FBR is expected to release additional details about the case. Authorities have not ruled out expanding the probe to include other entities associated with Ansari’s business operations. Meanwhile, the designer’s legal team has yet to issue a public statement addressing the allegations.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the increasing pressure on businesses to comply with Pakistan’s tax laws. With the FBR doubling down on enforcement, the outcome of this high-stakes investigation could set a precedent for how tax evasion cases are handled in the future.
