Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said Pakistan recovered Rs800 billion through enforcement measures over the past year without imposing any new taxes.
He made the remarks during a meeting with leading industrialists, businessmen and entrepreneurs in Islamabad. The meeting focused on exports, investment and economic reforms.
Shehbaz Stresses Export-Led Economic Growth
The prime minister said Pakistan’s future economic growth must remain focused on exports.
He argued that economic growth without a strong export base would have little meaning. He also highlighted special tax relief provided to exporters under the federal budget.
Shehbaz said the government wants to identify the main obstacles facing exporters. He also sought proposals from business leaders on how to overcome those challenges.
Rs800 Billion Recovered Through Enforcement
Shehbaz Sharif said the government recovered Rs800 billion during the last fiscal year through enforcement measures alone.
He said the government did not introduce any new taxes to achieve the recovery. Officials also pursued tax-related cases that had remained pending in courts for years.
The prime minister described the improvement in enforcement as a major step in strengthening tax collection.
Government Consulted Business Community
The prime minister said the government held several rounds of consultations with the business community before presenting the federal budget.
He said the Finance and Commerce ministries also engaged business representatives during the process. According to Shehbaz, their proposals helped shape several structural reforms.
He described the reform process as a long-term effort based on cooperation between the government and the private sector.
Government Reviews Support for Exporters
During the meeting, Shehbaz also directed officials to review extending the super tax exemption for exporters.
He called for immediate steps to resolve problems faced by businesses. He also stressed the need to improve the ease of doing business and reduce regulatory barriers.
The government is also working on trade facilitation, energy costs, FBR digitization and better transport infrastructure to support businesses and exports.
Business Leaders Welcome Consultation
Representatives of the business community welcomed the government’s continued engagement with industry.
They said regular consultations could help increase investment and exports. Business leaders also expressed confidence in recent economic reforms and improved macroeconomic stability.
The meeting also covered emerging export sectors, including telecommunications, digital infrastructure and artificial intelligence
