Author name: Yasir Zubairi

ISLAMABAD — During a press briefing at the Pakistan Secretariat in Islamabad, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, and Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani discussed the Federal Budget 2026–27. They emphasized the government’s focus on sustainable economic growth and fiscal stability. Strategic Budget Allocation Finance Minister Aurangzeb detailed essential aspects of the financial plan, concentrating on the strategic allocation of resources to vital sectors. The key sectors addressed include: Health Education Infrastructure development These initiatives are designed to bolster economic resilience and enhance the living standards of citizens. Commitment to Transparency Minister Tarar underscored the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability, ensuring effective fund utilization to achieve economic objectives. During the session, ministers fielded media questions, offering insights into allocation strategies and future economic prospects. Fiscal Policies and Economic Objectives The briefing highlighted the government’s fiscal policies and economic goals for the next year. The ministers presented detailed strategies outlining the economic framework set to guide Pakistan’s growth.

KARACHI — The Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has praised several features of the federal budget for 2026-27. Key highlights include the Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) move towards automation, adjusted tax rates for salaried workers, and relief for construction and real estate sectors. FBR Automation Enhancements The KCCI commended the shift towards FBR automation, seeing it as crucial for enhancing transparency and efficiency in tax collection. This initiative aims to establish a streamlined tax administration process, benefiting businesses and individuals alike. Changes in Tax Rates Impact on Salaried Workers The KCCI welcomed the revisions in tax rates for salaried individuals as a positive step. These changes aim to reduce financial pressure on the salaried class and are expected to promote consumer spending. Boost for Construction and Real Estate KCCI also praised relief measures for the construction and real estate sectors. These initiatives are vital for spurring economic growth and bolstering key industries, likely to lead to increased investment and market activity.

ISLAMABAD — The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) has praised the government’s economic measures in the federal budget for 2026-27, highlighting efforts in macroeconomic stabilization. FPCCI’s Views on Growth On Friday, FPCCI emphasized the critical need for a strong shift toward sustained economic and industrial growth. The organization identified specific policies aimed at economic stabilization and expressed confidence in their potential to drive long-term growth and prosperity. Importance of Industrial Development The FPCCI stressed that a strong focus on industrial development is crucial for strengthening the national economy. They see this as a key component for achieving broader economic objectives. Support from the Business Community The business community continually backs policies that foster economic stability. The FPCCI’s endorsement reflects approval of the government’s current fiscal strategy, indicating widespread support. Joint Government Efforts The FPCCI is committed to working with the government to ensure these economic measures are effectively implemented, enhancing their positive impact on the economy.

RAWALPINDI — The Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) evaluated the Federal Budget 2026-27. They described it as a combination of commendable measures and significant gaps. Tax Relief and Export Initiatives RCCI President Usman Shaukat praised the tax cuts for the salaried class. He also welcomed tax relief for the IT sector to boost exports and employment. Shaukat commended the Rs. 88 billion allocation to the Export Finance Scheme but recommended increasing this amount to further enhance export levels. He noted the proposed removal of duties on life-saving medicines as a crucial public benefit. Strategies for Industrial Growth Sohail Altaf, RCCI Group Leader, acknowledged the budgetary initiatives but highlighted the absence of a comprehensive strategy for industrial growth and business facilitation. He supported the Fixed Tax Scheme. However, he expressed concerns about its potential implementation challenges. Altaf emphasized the necessity for export-led economic policies to achieve sustainable industrial growth. Support for Tax Schemes and Small Businesses Altaf supported eliminating the super tax and reducing the withholding tax. Yet, he criticized the budget for not adequately supporting small businesses. He stressed that expanding the tax base by adding new taxpayers is essential to increase revenue. Real Estate and Inflation Concerns Former RCCI President Raja Amer Iqbal approved of the incentives for the real estate sector, including property transaction relief. Nevertheless, RCCI leaders pointed out the budget’s failure to address inflation and the ambiguities in sales tax measures effectively.

ISLAMABAD — The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI) has expressed approval of the Rs 18.7 trillion Federal Budget for 2026-27. The endorsement underscores the government’s commitment to macroeconomic stabilization, which is crucial for maintaining the country’s economic well-being. Emphasis on Financial Stability The FPCCI commends the budget’s focus on financial stability across Pakistan. The organization acknowledges the importance of these measures, applauding the government’s efforts to foster a stable financial environment. Promoting Sustainable Economic Growth The FPCCI encourages the government to prioritize sustainable economic and industrial growth. It stresses the need for robust policies aimed at long-term development to enhance the nation’s economic outlook. Balancing Stability and Growth The FPCCI emphasizes the vital balance that the budget strives to achieve between macroeconomic stability and economic development. This balance is essential to sustaining a prosperous industrial sector, ensuring prosperity for both current and future generations in Pakistan.