The Pakistani government has finalized a new industrial policy to rescue the declining manufacturing sector, which has been shrinking for years. The policy was approved during a high-level meeting of the Industrial Policy Committee, chaired by Special Assistant to the PM, Haroon Akhtar Khan, in Islamabad. Officials in the meeting showed concern that industry’s share […]
Pakistani Government
Government instructs FBR not to increase taxes on imports from US, China
The Pakistani government has instructed the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to refrain from increasing taxes and customs duties on imports coming from the United States, China, and several other major trading partners. This directive covers imports from countries including the US, Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Japan, and China, according to FBR officials. The […]
Pakistan tightens tax net on SEZs in IMF-driven shakeup
The Pakistani government has decided to stop giving tax exemptions to new Special Economic Zones (SEZs). This step is part of ongoing reforms under the International Monetary Fund (IMF) program. Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb told the National Assembly’s Finance Committee that the exemptions were not giving the expected economic results. He explained that the existing […]
Tax relief proposed for fertilizers, pesticides—but farmers still disappointed
In the newly announced federal budget 2025–26, the Pakistani government has proposed to continue sales tax exemptions on fertilizers and pesticides, in an attempt to support the agriculture sector, considered the backbone of the economy. Despite this relief, key stakeholders have voiced dissatisfaction, saying many promises remain unfulfilled. During his budget speech in Parliament, Finance […]
Pakistan shares Rs3 trillion gas sector circular debt plan with IMF
The Pakistani government has formally presented a comprehensive plan to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) aimed at eliminating the mounting Rs3 trillion circular debt in the gas sector. This initiative is part of the country’s upcoming budget preparations and a broader effort to stabilize the energy sector. According to official sources, the Petroleum Division crafted […]
FIRs to be filed and passports cancelled for deported Pakistanis: Interior ministry
The Pakistani government has announced a tough new policy targeting deported nationals to prevent misuse of travel documents and safeguard the country’s reputation abroad. The Interior Ministry stated that First Information Reports (FIRs) will now be registered against all deported Pakistanis, and their passports will be cancelled immediately upon deportation. This decision was finalized during […]
Govt plans to raise petroleum levy over Rs100 per litre in IMF talks
The Pakistani government and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have agreed to increase petroleum-related taxes in the next fiscal year. Sources say both sides discussed applying a Rs5 carbon levy on petroleum products. The proposal also includes raising the petroleum levy to more than Rs100 per litre. These steps aim to meet IMF revenue targets. […]
Pakistan commits to steady tax reforms in meeting with US business council
The Pakistani government has expressed its commitment to implementing ongoing tax reforms, aiming for a more predictable policy environment. Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb reassured the American Business Council (ABC) during a meeting on Friday that structural tax changes are on the horizon. This meeting was attended by key members of the ABC, including executives from […]
Government proposes new tax on petroleum products, delays potential price cuts
The Pakistani government is considering a new tax on petroleum products, which could lead to a delay in expected price cuts. The proposal, under review by the Petroleum Division, suggests an additional 4.12 rupees per liter in costs, which may cancel out potential relief for consumers due to lower international oil prices. The price adjustment, […]
Govt to charge deported beggars under anti-terror laws
The Pakistani government has decided to prosecute beggars deported from Gulf countries under the Anti-Terrorism Act. Officials say this step aims to protect the country’s global image. The decision comes after complaints from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and others about Pakistani families begging in their countries. Begging is considered a serious crime in these regions. […]