DEVELOPED countries are documented economies having multifaceted advantages. In simple words, income earned by an individual or an organisation, by default, has a trail through banking channels. Across England, for instance, if one boards a bus or train, one has to either pay fare via a travel card or a contactless bank card. Travel and bank cards are registered in owner’s name and help government monitor movement of money in the public arena.

A shop without a debit or credit card payment facility triggers customer resentment, and business suffers. Taxes are paid religiously, and in case of a breach, zero tolerance is manifested.

The government in Pakistan is taking steps in the right direction to document the country’s economy. For a couple of months or maybe years, people may find it hard to cope with this change. Traders and people may protest. It should, however, not mean that efforts should be halted. These steps will help tackle tax evasion and corruption.

Shahzad Lodhi
London, UK

Published in Dawn, February 23rd, 2026