ISLAMABAD: The government has assured traders that their proposals for a simplified taxation system will be considered in the upcoming Budget FY2026-27, as consultations continue between economic policymakers and the business community ahead of the federal budget announcement.
The assurance was given during a meeting between Bilal Azhar Kayani and a delegation of Markazi Tanzeem Tajran Pakistan led by its president Kashif Chaudhry.
During the meeting, the traders’ delegation presented a detailed set of recommendations focused on introducing business-friendly policies for Pakistan’s retail and wholesale sectors. The delegation highlighted various issues in the current taxation structure and urged the government to simplify tax procedures to encourage voluntary compliance among traders and businesses.
The traders strongly emphasized the need for an “Asan Tax Scheme” in the fiscal year 2026-27 budget. According to the delegation, a simplified tax framework would help expand Pakistan’s tax net, reduce disputes between traders and tax authorities, and improve confidence within the business community.
Officials said the ongoing pre-budget consultations are part of the government’s strategy to ensure an inclusive and collaborative economic policymaking process. The government is engaging different sectors, including traders, industrialists, exporters, and investors, to gather recommendations before finalizing the federal budget.
The delegation appreciated Shehbaz Sharif for initiating direct consultations with traders and acknowledged Bilal Azhar Kayani’s efforts to address concerns faced by the commercial sector.
Speaking during the meeting, Bilal Azhar Kayani reaffirmed the government’s commitment to resolving traders’ problems and creating a more business-friendly environment across Pakistan. He stated that the retail and wholesale sectors play a vital role in boosting economic activity, generating employment opportunities, and supporting national revenue collection.
The minister assured the traders that all proposals would be reviewed carefully while preparing the Budget FY2026-27. He added that the government aims to strike a balance between increasing revenue collection and supporting commercial growth in the country.
Business leaders believe that introducing a simplified tax scheme could encourage more businesses to enter the formal economy and improve relations between the Federal Board of Revenue and traders. The upcoming federal budget is expected to focus heavily on tax reforms, economic stability, and expanding the national tax base.
