Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb announced that the upcoming FY2025-26 budget, to be unveiled on June 10, will introduce “bold measures” focused on strategic economic direction, not just fiscal math. Speaking at an event in Islamabad, he stressed the need to break Pakistan’s cycle of short-term growth and long-term instability, highlighting the importance of structural reforms, including in taxation and state-owned enterprises (SOEs).
Aurangzeb acknowledged past economic missteps, warning against consumption-driven policies. He emphasized simplifying the tax return process for salaried individuals, aiming to cut it down to nine key data points by September.
On external pressures, he confirmed efforts to derail IMF engagement, but said Pakistan’s case was heard “on merit.” Addressing tensions with India, he praised national unity and urged the same cohesion in economic recovery.
