In Pakistan, registering an e-commerce business involves obtaining a National Tax Number (NTN) and a Sales Tax Registration Number (STRN) from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), registering the business with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), and obtaining any necessary licenses and permits.
Here is a general overview of the process for registering an e-commerce business in Pakistan:
- Choose a name for the business and conduct a name search to ensure it is available and not in use by another company.
- Obtain a National Tax Number (NTN) and a Sales Tax Registration Number (STRN) from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).
- Register the business with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) as a private limited company or a single-member company.
- Obtain a certificate of registration from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
- Obtain any necessary licenses and permits from the relevant government department, such as the Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Industries and Production, Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, and Ministry of Textile Industry.
- Obtain a Sales Tax registration certificate from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR)
- Register for social security and employee provident fund with the Employees Old-Age Benefits Institution (EOBI)
- Obtain any other licenses and permits that may be required for the specific business, such as a food safety and sanitation certificate if selling food products.
It is important to note that the process and the requirements may vary depending on the nature of the business and the location of the company. It’s advisable to consult with a lawyer or a professional consultant for specific guidance and help in the registration process. Additionally, the e-commerce business will have to comply with the laws and regulations of Pakistan, including tax laws, labor laws, and other relevant laws.