PM Shehbaz Vows Public Relief in Upcoming Budget, Highlights Economic Strategy
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said that the upcoming federal budget for 2026–27 will include measures aimed at providing relief to the public while supporting an export-led growth strategy.
He made these remarks during a meeting with leading industrialists and business representatives at the Prime Minister House.
Focus on economic growth and exports
The prime minister said the government’s economic policy is centred on promoting exports, increasing domestic production, and creating employment opportunities.
He added that efforts are underway to strengthen key sectors, including industry, agriculture, and information technology, as part of broader economic development plans.
Efforts to expand tax base
PM Shehbaz also stated that steps are being taken to bring parts of the informal economy into the tax net. According to him, this measure is intended to improve revenue collection and support fiscal stability.
He emphasized that consultation with the business community remains an important part of the policymaking process.
Business community engagement
The meeting included prominent business leaders and industrialists, who were briefed on ongoing government initiatives related to taxation, trade, and industrial development.
Officials informed participants about reforms in tax tribunals aimed at speeding up the resolution of tax-related cases, as well as plans to establish special commercial courts.
Infrastructure and development projects
The delegation was also briefed on several infrastructure projects designed to improve connectivity and logistics, including upgrades to motorway and railway networks such as ML-1 and ML-2.
Authorities also shared updates on initiatives aimed at improving port connectivity and reducing transportation time for commercial goods.
Digital and industrial reforms
Officials said a national artificial intelligence (AI) transformation plan is under development. They also highlighted the use of digital monitoring systems in certain industries to improve transparency and revenue collection.
Business community response
Business leaders expressed confidence in the government’s economic direction and acknowledged ongoing reforms aimed at improving the investment climate.
They also appreciated steps such as reduced electricity tariffs for industry, improvements in tax refund processes, and efforts to simplify business regulations.
The participants reiterated their support for continued cooperation with the government to strengthen economic recovery and promote long-term growth.
