Budget to focus on industry, exports as government pledges business-friendly measures

Pakistan’s forthcoming federal budget will prioritize industrial growth and export promotion, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan said on Wednesday.

He made the remarks during a meeting with Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, where a delegation from the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry presented proposals and recommendations for the budget. Akhtar Khan said tax relaxations and incentives are under review, and the government is committed to incorporating practical, growth-oriented measures.

Highlighting long-term reforms, Akhtar Khan said Pakistan’s first-ever National Industrial Policy has been prepared to provide a comprehensive framework for sustainable industrial development. He added that regulatory reforms and new policies are being implemented to facilitate investors and improve the ease of doing business.

The SAPM stressed that economic development remains a top government priority, with ministries working day and night under the Prime Minister’s directives to strengthen exports and enhance the national economy.

Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif noted that industrial development is key to realizing the dream of a strong economy. He said maximum facilitation of the business community is essential for sustained economic improvement and national prosperity.

Akhtar Khan assured that the feedback and suggestions of traders and industrialists would be considered in the budget-making process to ensure inclusive and effective economic planning.