LAHORE: The Punjab government has started revising property valuation rates across multiple districts in an effort to attract foreign investment, particularly from the United Arab Emirates and other Gulf countries.
Following a directive from the Board of Revenue Punjab, district administrations across the province have initiated the process of updating property valuation tables in line with federal benchmarks.
Sources said the Prime Minister has been briefed on the ongoing reforms, with officials highlighting that reducing tax-related friction in the real estate sector could help position Pakistan as a more attractive destination for foreign investors.
The adjustment process is currently underway in several districts, where local property rates are being aligned with standards set by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) ahead of the upcoming fiscal year.
Officials say the broader aim of the initiative is to stimulate investment inflows and improve documentation in the property market, particularly by encouraging participation from overseas investors.
However, industry observers have raised concerns about the potential impact of the revised valuation framework. They suggest that the immediate benefits may be concentrated in large housing schemes and major developers, especially in cities such as Rawalpindi and other urban centers, rather than significantly boosting overall market activity for individual buyers.
While authorities expect improved investment sentiment, the actual outcome of the policy shift remains uncertain as implementation continues at the district level.
