PTBA Seeks Greater Clarity on Government’s Proposed Fixed Tax Scheme for Small Traders
The proposed Fixed Tax Scheme (FTS) for small traders, unveiled by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, has sparked discussion within Pakistan’s tax community. While the initiative has been welcomed as a step toward expanding the country’s tax net and encouraging undocumented businesses to enter the formal economy, tax experts believe several aspects of the plan require […]
Pakistan Moves Toward Duty-Free Defence Imports from July 2026
Pakistan is preparing to introduce a major policy change that could reduce the cost of defense procurement by eliminating customs duties on military imports. The proposal, recently endorsed by the Tariff Policy Board (TPB), aims to exempt defense-related imports from the existing 15 percent customs duty beginning July 1, 2026. The recommendation follows directions issued […]
SECP Introduces IPO Reforms to Open Capital Markets for More Businesses
The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has unveiled a set of regulatory changes aimed at making it easier for established businesses to enter the capital market and raise funds through Initial Public Offerings (IPOs). The amendments, made to the Public Offering Regulations, 2017, are expected to provide greater opportunities for businesses that have […]
Government Plans EFS Reforms to Stop Tax Abuse and Protect Formal Industries
The federal government is preparing possible reforms to the Export Facilitation Scheme (EFS) as part of the upcoming FY2026-27 budget, aiming to tackle the alleged misuse of tax exemptions and invoice trading in local markets. Officials are reviewing several proposals designed to improve transparency, strengthen tax collection, and support documented industries that claim they are […]
Pakistan Pushes for Greater Trade Access in New China FTA Talks
Pakistan is preparing to request major trade concessions from China as discussions begin on the third phase of the China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement (CPFTA). The move is part of Islamabad’s broader strategy to boost exports, reduce its growing trade deficit, and secure better market access for Pakistani industries. According to reports, Pakistani officials are expected […]
Pakistan Plans Sweeping Trade and Market Reforms Under IMF Programmed
Pakistan is preparing to implement a new round of economic reforms as part of its commitments to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), with major policy changes expected in tariffs, agriculture, sugar trade, and the automobile industry. The reforms, outlined in the IMF’s latest programmed review, are aimed at reducing trade barriers, limiting government intervention in […]
Lahore High Court Declares Super Tax Inapplicable on Zero-Taxed Inherited Property Gains
In a major development for taxpayers and the real estate sector, the Lahore High Court (LHC) has ruled that super tax under Section 4C of the Income Tax Ordinance, 2001, cannot be charged on capital gains arising from inherited property when the applicable capital gains tax rate is already set at zero per cent. The […]
China’s Digital Expansion into Pakistan Could Redefine Regional Trade
Pakistan is taking another major step toward digital economic transformation as a leading Chinese technology and industrial e-commerce group prepares to establish its Digital Economy Headquarters in the country. The initiative is expected to unlock more than $10 billion in trade opportunities while opening new doors for Pakistani small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to enter […]
Pakistan Tightens Tax Registration Rules for International NGOs
Pakistan’s tax authorities are preparing to introduce stricter registration and documentation requirements for international non-government organizations (INGOs) operating in the country. The proposed changes are part of broader efforts to improve transparency, strengthen regulatory oversight, and streamline compliance procedures within the non-profit sector. The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has issued draft amendments to the […]
Pakistan and the US Explore New Opportunities for Economic Cooperation
Pakistan and the United States are showing renewed interest in strengthening their economic relationship as both countries engage in discussions focused on investment, reforms, and future business opportunities. Recent meetings between senior US officials and Pakistan’s finance leadership highlighted a growing willingness on both sides to deepen commercial cooperation. The discussions reflected increasing international attention […]
Pakistan Moves Toward Refurbished Vehicle Re-Export Industry as FBR Plans EFS Changes
Pakistan is preparing to open a new chapter in its export and automotive sectors as the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) works on amendments to the Export Facilitation Scheme (EFS) 2021. The proposed changes are aimed at supporting the government’s upcoming refurbished vehicle import and re-export initiative. The plan is designed to allow businesses to […]
Pakistan Eyes Chinese Capital Markets with Historic Panda Bond Launch
Pakistan is preparing to enter China’s domestic debt market for the very first time through a Panda bond issuance worth around $250 million. The move represents a major step in the country’s efforts to diversify its external financing sources and strengthen economic stability amid ongoing global and regional challenges. Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb announced that […]
FIA Questions Pakistan’s Oil Price Compensation System Amid Allegations of Irregular Claims
Pakistan’s fuel pricing system has come under fresh scrutiny after the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) raised serious concerns about the mechanism used to compensate oil marketing companies (OMCs) during recent fluctuations in petroleum prices. An interim inquiry report prepared by FIA’s Anti-Corruption Circle in Karachi has described the current price differential compensation framework as deeply […]
Lahore High Court Expands Legal Powers of Overseas Pakistanis Property Courts
In a landmark decision, the Lahore High Court has clarified that special property courts established for overseas Pakistanis can hear a much wider range of disputes than previously understood. The ruling, delivered by Justice Anwaar Hussain, strengthens the role of special tribunals formed under the Punjab Establishment of Special Courts (Overseas Pakistanis Property) Act, 2025. […]
Altern Energy Pulls the Plug on Key Agreements: A Turning Point or Just Another Reset?
Pakistan’s power sector has seen its fair share of restructurings, but the recent move by Altern Energy Limited stands out for its scale and timing. The company has formally ended multiple agreements with the government and major state-run entities, signaling a notable shift in how energy contracts are being handled in the country. A clean […]
New US F-16 Support Deal: A Boost for Pakistan’s Air Power
The United States has taken another step in supporting the global network of F-16 fighter jet operators by awarding a major long-term contract for radar system maintenance and engineering services. Valued at $488 million, the agreement will run until 2036 and includes Pakistan among a wide group of participating countries. At its core, the contract […]
Revenue Pressures Mount as Pakistan Falls Short of Tax Targets
Pakistan’s tax collection efforts are facing growing strain, with the gap between actual revenue and official targets widening as the fiscal year progresses. The latest figures show that the country is significantly behind schedule, putting pressure on authorities to accelerate collections in the final months. During the first ten months of fiscal year 2025–26, total […]
AGP Limited Charts a New Growth Path with Strategic Pharma Deals
Pakistan’s pharmaceutical sector may be heading into an interesting phase, as AGP Limited signals a more aggressive expansion strategy. In its latest board meeting held on April 29, 2026, the company approved a series of initiatives that point toward both short-term product launches and longer-term growth ambitions. A Dual Approach: Expansion and Efficiency At the […]
Pakistan’s E-Commerce Sector Is Losing Billions at Checkout — Why It Matters
Pakistan’s e-commerce industry is expanding rapidly, fueled by growing internet access, smartphone usage, and a shift toward digital shopping. However, behind this upward trend lies a critical issue: a significant portion of potential revenue is being lost at the checkout stage. Estimates suggest that the sector is losing around $1.61 billion annually due to inefficiencies […]
Lower Gas Levies, Higher Stakes: What the IMF’s Decision Means for Pakistan’s Industry
Pakistan’s industrial sector is set to benefit from a notable reduction in energy costs after the International Monetary Fund (IMF) approved changes to the captive gas levy formula. The revision could cut gas prices for companies running their own power plants by as much as 60%—but the relief comes with important conditions that could shape […]