ISLAMABAD: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) plans to dispatch its mission to Pakistan next month to finalise the upcoming budget for 2026-27.
According to sources, the IMF has proposed a tax collection target of Rs15.564 trillion for the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) in the upcoming fiscal year.
In light of the current geopolitical situation, the government has initiated consultations to shape the budget framework.
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has already held preliminary discussions with key business groups, including the Pakistan Business Council and the Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Meanwhile, officials have also engaged with the All Pakistan Textile Mills Association to address concerns related to rising logistics and freight costs amid regional tensions.
Sources indicate that Pakistani authorities are aiming to set the FBR’s target slightly lower, around Rs15.232 trillion, given that the current year’s target of Rs13.979 trillion is unlikely to be fully achieved.
The FBR is also pushing for significant tax relief for the salaried class, including reductions in super tax rates in the upcoming budget.
Additionally, the government is considering requesting the IMF to withdraw certain withholding taxes (WHT), particularly those where large refund backlogs have accumulated.
The upcoming IMF mission, expected in May 2026, will play a crucial role in finalising key fiscal measures for the next budget.
