Information Minister Attaullah Tarar strongly defended the federal budget 2026-27 in the National Assembly on Sunday. He called it a “relief package” that supports economic stability and growth for all segments of society.
Tarar said enforcement actions by the government helped recover around Rs800 billion in revenue. This includes about Rs60 billion recovered from the sugar sector alone. He highlighted major reforms in the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), tax system, and customs processes to improve collection and reduce leakages.
The minister pointed out that the budget gives relief to salaried individuals earning up to Rs50,000 per month with no new taxes. It also supports exporters and aims to control inflation. He noted that economic indicators are improving compared to previous years, with better revenue and remittances.
However, opposition members from PPP and PTI criticised the budget. They questioned the high tax targets, rising electricity costs, continued inflation, and lack of attention to underdeveloped regions like Karachi.
Tarar invited the opposition to join a Charter of Economy for national interest. He said the budget has received praise from economists and international observers. The government believes these steps will strengthen Pakistan’s economy in the coming year.
