Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed on Friday his government’s commitment to provide economic relief for the common man, stating that his well -being would be in the heart of the federal budget by 2025–26, the Associated Press of Pakistan reported.
By chairing a high -level meeting on budget preparations, the prime minister emphasized that all available resources would be mobilized to reduce financial load in low and medium -sized income groups. “Providing relief to the common man is our top priority,” he said.
The Prime Minister directed that the next budget should focus on sustainable growth, promoted by export and emphasize support for industry, employment creation, agriculture, IT, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and the housing sector.
He stressed the importance of public-private associations and youth vocational training, stating that both would play a fundamental role in promoting inclusive national development.
Citing progress in the reforms of the electricity sector, Prime Minister Shehbaz said that the reduction of industrial electricity rates was already producing positive results and would help boost national production.
To further rationalize governance and improve commercial climate, the prime minister underlined the government’s approach to automation and digitalization, aimed at improving transparency and relieving investors facilitation.
He also reiterated the government’s commitment to the right of the federal structure, noting that efforts to reduce the size of the federal government would continue in the next fiscal year.
The authorities reported the meeting said that the consultations with the private sector had been underway during the last three months. There were also participation sessions of the stakeholders of several sectors to guarantee an inclusive approach for the creation of budgets.
Participants were informed that both the five -year commercial policy framework (2025–30) and the electronic commerce framework 2.0 would soon end. In addition, a tariff rationalization plan is being worked on to improve commercial competitiveness.
A delegation of entrepreneurs and economic experts in assistance expressed confidence in the government’s economic direction and offered suggestions for the budget. Prime Minister Shehbaz welcomed the contribution and directed that the feasible proposals are incorporated into the final budget document.
