PM prioritises relief for common man in upcoming budget

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday reaffirmed his government’s commitment to providing economic relief for the common man, stating that their welfare would be at the heart of the federal budget for 2025–26, the Associated Press of Pakistan reported. Chairing a high-level meeting on budget preparations, the premier stressed that all available resources would be mobilised to reduce the financial burden on lower- and middle-income groups. “Providing relief to the common man is our utmost priority,” he said. The prime minister directed that the upcoming budget should focus on sustainable, export-driven growth, and emphasised support for industry, job creation, agriculture, IT, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and the housing sector. He highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships and youth vocational training, stating that both would play a critical role in fostering inclusive national development. Citing progress in power sector reforms, PM Shehbaz said that the reduction in industrial electricity tariffs was already yielding positive outcomes and would help boost domestic production. To further streamline governance and improve the business climate, the prime minister underscored the government's focus on automation and digitisation, aimed at enhancing transparency and easing investor facilitation. He also reiterated the government’s commitment to rightsizing the federal structure, noting that efforts to reduce the size of the federal government would continue in the next fiscal year. Officials briefing the meeting said that consultations with the private sector had been underway for the past three months. Stakeholder engagement sessions from various sectors had also been conducted to ensure an inclusive approach to budget-making. Participants were informed that both the five-year Trade Policy Framework (2025–30) and the E-Commerce 2.0 Framework would soon be finalised. Additionally, a tariff rationalisation plan is in the works to enhance trade competitiveness. A delegation of businessmen and economic experts in attendance expressed confidence in the government’s economic direction and offered suggestions for the budget. PM Shehbaz welcomed the input and directed that feasible proposals be incorporated into the final budget document.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/Xm93noY