Islamabad, Pakistan – Web Desk: Shehbaz Sharif has rejected a proposal to introduce a mini-budget ahead of the next fiscal plan, directing tax authorities to avoid imposing additional burdens on citizens already affected by rising oil prices.
According to sources, the decision was made during a high-level meeting with the Federal Board of Revenue, where officials presented various proposals aimed at increasing tax revenue amid ongoing regional tensions.
The prime minister made it clear that the government would not consider new taxes or a mini-budget at this stage, emphasizing that the public is already under pressure due to elevated fuel costs. Instead, he instructed authorities to explore alternative revenue-generation measures.
Officials said the government is also considering engaging with the International Monetary Fund to review fiscal targets in light of the evolving situation in the Middle East, which could impact economic projections.
Sources added that key budget targets, including inflation, fiscal deficit, and the current account balance, may face challenges in the upcoming fiscal year 2026–27 due to external pressures.
Work on the federal budget is currently underway, with planning meetings expected later this month. The government is likely to present the budget in parliament in early June, with adjustments reflecting changing economic conditions.
