PM vows to introduce industrial growth measures in upcoming budget, directs clearance of all tax refund cases by June 15

Islamabad (Web Desk): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met a delegation of senior representatives from chambers of commerce and industry across the country to discuss the upcoming federal budget, economic growth, export promotion, and challenges facing the business community.

During the meeting, the delegation presented its recommendations for the next budget and proposals aimed at strengthening the national economy.

The prime minister directed the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to ensure that all pending tax refund cases are resolved by June 15, emphasizing that the move would help ease financial pressures on businesses.

He said Pakistan’s economy had stabilized due to consistent efforts and effective policies, adding that export-led growth remains the government’s central economic objective.

PM Shehbaz also announced that despite the recent increase in the policy rate, the markup under the Export Finance Scheme would remain unchanged at 4.5 percent until June 2027, providing continued support to exporters.

To facilitate the business community, the prime minister issued instructions to relocate the headquarters of Pakistan Revenue Automation Limited (PRAL) to Karachi.

He also directed authorities to establish a passport office in Gujrat following requests from overseas Pakistanis.

Encouraging investment in the industrial sector, he urged investors to promote local manufacturing of electric vehicles through joint ventures and partnerships.

Members of the delegation praised the efforts of the prime minister, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for their role in promoting regional peace and helping ease tensions in the Gulf region.

The business leaders also welcomed the government’s plans for the privatization of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), the digitalization of the FBR, and the launch of affordable financing under the “Apna Ghar Programme.” They assured the government of their full cooperation in bringing the grey economy into the formal economic system.