ISLAMABAD: The federal government is planning to present the national budget for the fiscal year 2025-26 before Eid-ul-Adha.
According to well-placed sources, a proposal to convene the budget session of parliament earlier than usual is under serious consideration due to the approaching Eid holidays. If approved, the federal budget is expected to be tabled in the National Assembly between June 3 and 5, just a few days before Eid.
The early presentation aims to ensure that the budget debate and its subsequent approval process are not delayed by the Eid holidays. Sources further revealed that the budget approval process will formally begin immediately after Eid.
IMF consultations underway
Meanwhile, the government is also gearing up for critical consultations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) regarding key budgetary targets.
An IMF mission is scheduled to arrive in Pakistan on May 14 to review and finalize important figures such as the annual tax revenue target and the development budget for the upcoming fiscal year.
Prior to this, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb is expected to attend the Spring Meetings of the IMF and the World Bank, being held in Washington from April 21 to 26. These meetings will be crucial in aligning Pakistan’s upcoming budget with the expectations of international lenders, especially as Islamabad seeks a new long-term loan.
