PM Shehbaz seeks business community’s input ahead of budget 2026–27

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a meeting with a delegation of leading industrialists and business personalities to seek their input into the upcoming Federal Budget 2026–27 and broader efforts to strengthen economic growth.

During the meeting, the prime minister said the government values the input of the business community in policymaking and stressed that their consultation is essential for shaping effective economic policies. He added that export-led growth remains the cornerstone of the government’s economic strategy.

The premier said that steps are being taken to bring the informal economy into the tax net, while the upcoming budget will include measures aimed at providing relief to the public and supporting economic stability.

Shehbaz Sharif said business-friendly policies have helped improve economic conditions and restore investor confidence. He emphasised that the government is focused on promoting industries that increase production, boost exports and create employment opportunities.

Shehbaz stressed on the importance of growth in the industrial, agricultural and IT sectors, saying these areas are key to long-term economic stability. He also pointed to government initiatives for technical and vocational training to equip youth with skills for employment.

The meeting also briefed the business delegation on ongoing reforms, including improvements in tax tribunals for faster case resolution and plans to establish Special Commercial Courts.

Officials also informed the delegation about infrastructure projects aimed at improving trade and connectivity, including upgrades to Motorway M-10 and the Pipri Freight Corridor, as well as the construction of Motorway M-13 to reduce travel time between major cities.

The briefing also stressed upgrades to Pakistan Railways’ ML-1 and ML-2 projects, the preparation of a National AI Transformation Plan, and the use of video analytics in key industries to improve revenue collection.

The business delegation appreciated the government’s economic policies, including efforts to promote digital payments, tax reforms, and improvements in the ease of doing business. They also welcomed reductions in industrial electricity tariffs, the abolition of the Export Development Levy, and timely tax refunds.

Business leaders expressed confidence in the government’s economic direction and thanked the Prime Minister for involving them in the budget-making process. They also presented recommendations for further economic reforms and reaffirmed their support for continued cooperation with the government.

The meeting was attended by senior federal ministers, including those for finance, law, economic affairs, IT, petroleum, power, and other key portfolios, along with senior government officials.