Islamabad (Commerce Desk) The federal government has decided to prepare the upcoming fiscal year 2026–27 budget in line with the conditions of the International Monetary Fund.
According to sources in the Ministry of Finance, the budget is likely to be presented in the first week of June next year. Proposals are under consideration to provide relief to the salaried class, while a gradual reduction in the super tax will be made in consultation with the International Monetary Fund. A proposal to increase stipends for beneficiaries of the Benazir Income Support Programme by 5,000 rupees is also included, under which the quarterly amount may be raised from 14,500 rupees to 19,500 rupees.
According to sources, proposals are also under review to abolish income tax and sales tax exemptions given to various sectors, while no new tax exemptions or incentives will be granted for special economic zones. It is also being considered to withdraw existing tax exemptions for special economic zones and to impose a ban on the sale of export zone products in the domestic market.
Further proposals include making regular and timely increases in electricity and gas prices mandatory, while the International Monetary Fund has stressed stricter tariff adjustments.
In addition, there is a proposal to further strengthen and centralize the audit system of the Federal Board of Revenue, while the ban on the establishment of new economic zones will remain in place.
Sources added that foreign exchange restrictions will be gradually eased, and a target has been set to establish a regulatory registry in Pakistan by 2027.
