Business leaders have urged the federal government to establish a more predictable and transparent tax system, saying policy certainty is essential to attract investment, support business expansion, and sustain long-term economic growth.
The demand came during a meeting between Advisor to the Finance Minister Khurram Schehzad and the leadership of the Pakistan Business Council (PBC), where both sides discussed tax reforms, privatization, and broader structural economic measures aimed at increasing private-sector participation.
The meeting also reviewed the government’s privatization agenda, including the proposed sale of power distribution companies (DISCOs), banks, and airports. Participants discussed improving efficiency, attracting investment, and enhancing service delivery through greater private-sector involvement.
They also explored the possibility of bringing major public-sector entities to the capital market through initial public offerings (IPOs), including the State Life Insurance Corporation (SLIC). The participants noted that broader participation by private and institutional investors could improve corporate governance, transparency, operational efficiency, and access to capital while supporting market-led economic activity.
The PBC expressed support for the government’s rightsizing program and called for a leaner and more efficient public sector. It also agreed to provide detailed recommendations on privatization, restructuring of state-owned enterprises (SOEs), rightsizing, and measures to expand private-sector participation.
On tax policy, both sides stressed the importance of a stable, transparent, and competitive tax regime that encourages investment and economic activity. The PBC said it would share recommendations with the government to help shape its medium-term tax policy framework.
The business body also welcomed the FY2026-27 federal budget’s shift from increasing the tax burden toward broadening the tax base and economic activity. It appreciated incentives introduced for exporters and businesses to improve competitiveness, reduce the cost of doing business, and encourage investment.
Khurram Schehzad emphasized the importance of continued engagement with the business community, saying regular consultation is vital for strengthening investor confidence, improving the business environment, and implementing sustainable economic reforms.
Both sides agreed to continue working together to advance reforms, boost private-sector investment, and support sustainable economic growth.
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