Parents across Pakistan are expected to face higher back-to-school expenses after the federal budget. The government imposed a 10% sales tax on dozens of stationery items under the Finance Bill 2026-27.
The new tax took effect on July 1 with the start of the 2026-27 fiscal year. Consequently, families may spend more on essential school supplies.
Sales Tax Applies To Essential School Supplies
According to the government’s notification, the tax covers a wide range of stationery products. These include pencils, pens, geometry boxes, sharpeners, exercise books, school glue, writing pads and colour pencils.
Market experts believe the levy could increase retail prices by 10% to 15%. As a result, salaried and middle-income families may face greater financial pressure.
The price increase could also affect notebooks, books and school bags before the new academic session. Therefore, parents may encounter higher education-related expenses in the coming weeks.
Parents Raise Concerns Over Rising Education Costs
Economists say the higher cost of essential school supplies will directly impact household budgets. Meanwhile, many parents have expressed concern about the growing expense of educating their children.
They argue that rising stationery prices will add to existing inflationary pressures. Furthermore, many households already struggle with increasing living costs.
The latest tax measures form part of the federal government’s revenue strategy under the Finance Bill 2026-27. Accordingly, several sectors experienced tax changes from the beginning of the new fiscal year.
