Federal Budget 2025-26
The federal government is planning to present the national budget for the fiscal year 2025-26 ahead of Eid-ul-Adha, sources told on Thursday.
According to reliable sources, a proposal is under serious consideration to start the budget session of the parliament earlier than usual due to the upcoming Eid holidays.
If this plan is approved, the federal budget is likely to be presented in the National Assembly between June 3 and June 5, just a few days before Eid-ul-Adha.
The main reason for presenting the budget earlier is to avoid any delays in the budget debate and approval process caused by the Eid break. Once the holidays are over, the formal approval process for the budget will begin immediately.
At the same time, the government is preparing for important discussions with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) related to the budget’s key targets.
These consultations are part of ongoing efforts to align the upcoming federal budget with the IMF’s expectations, especially since Pakistan is looking to secure a new long-term loan program.
An IMF mission is expected to arrive in Pakistan on May 14. During their visit, they will review and finalize crucial figures, including the annual tax revenue target and the development budget for the fiscal year 2025-26.
Before the IMF team’s visit, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb is scheduled to attend the Spring Meetings of the IMF and World Bank in Washington, which will take place from April 21 to April 26.
These meetings are considered vital for setting the groundwork for Pakistan’s upcoming budget and for continuing talks with international lenders.
The government hopes that early coordination with the IMF and a timely presentation of the budget will help streamline the process and avoid any disruption during the Eid holidays.
