Pre-Budget Dialogue at ICCI Focuses on Economic Recovery

ISLAMABAD ( WNAM REPORT): A crucial pre-budget consultative session was held at the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI), bringing together key government officials and prominent business leaders to discuss proposals for the upcoming 2025-26 budget. The event served as a platform for open dialogue and collaboration, with both sides expressing a commitment to strengthening Pakistan’s economy.
The session was graced by the presence of Muhammad Aurangzeb, Minister of Finance, as the Chief Guest, and Ali Pervaiz Malik, Minister of State for Finance, as the Guest of Honor. Atif Ikram Sheikh, President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), also participated. Mian Akram Farid moderated the discussion.
In his opening remarks, Farid highlighted the anticipation within the industrial community that the upcoming budget would provide relief and incentives, enabling businesses to enhance productivity and contribute significantly to national revenue generation. He emphasized the business community’s hope that recent government initiatives aimed at economic stabilization would translate into tangible benefits for industries.
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb delivered a strong call to action, urging the private sector to actively engage in Pakistan’s economic recovery. He pointed to positive indicators, including a stabilized economy with a 2.41% inflation rate and increased investments, as evidence of progress. The Minister reiterated the government’s dedication to creating a supportive environment for businesses and pledged to incorporate viable proposals from the business community into the 2025-26 budget, which will focus on the “Uraan, Pakistan” initiative.
Minister of State for Finance, Ali Pervaiz Malik, further emphasized the government’s achievements in stabilizing the economy and successfully curbing inflation. He underscored the importance of continued collaboration between the public and private sectors to achieve sustainable economic growth.
Nasir Mansoor Qureshi, President of the ICCI, expressed his appreciation for the government’s proactive engagement with the business community on pre-budget proposals. He specifically mentioned key areas of focus for the business community, including tax reforms, reduction in energy tariffs, and enhanced support for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Qureshi emphasized the need for a budget that addresses these critical issues to unlock the full potential of the private sector.
FPCCI President Atif Ikram Sheikh acknowledged the government’s efforts in economic management but stressed the need for more concrete measures to further ease the ease of doing business in Pakistan. He called for greater simplification of regulatory processes and a more business-friendly environment.
Rashid Mehmood Langrial, Chairman of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), addressed concerns regarding tax-related issues and assured the business community of a transparent and efficient resolution process. He emphasized the FBR’s commitment to facilitating taxpayers and promoting a culture of tax compliance.
The interactive session witnessed active participation from numerous business leaders who shared their perspectives and offered valuable suggestions for the upcoming budget. The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Abdul Rehman Siddiqui, Senior Vice President of the ICCI. The pre-budget discussion served as a valuable platform for fostering collaboration and building consensus between the government and the business community, setting the stage for a budget that promotes economic growth and prosperity in Pakistan.