ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Information Atta Tarar has said that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has “fulfilled his promises” in the federal budget, crediting the government’s economic and tax reforms for improving fiscal performance and strengthening stability.
Speaking at a post-budget press conference, Atta Tarar said that significant revenue losses, known as “leakages,” had been identified within the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), and that reforms were introduced to address them.
Claims of Tax Leakages and Recovery
The information minister stated that only the sugar industry alone had reportedly caused a leakage of around Rs60 billion, arguing that the burden of inefficiencies in such sectors should not fall on salaried individuals.
“Why should the salaried class bear the burden of the sugar industry?” he asked, emphasizing the government’s focus on broadening the tax base and improving compliance.
He said that through recent reforms, tax evasion in the sugar sector had been controlled, resulting in the recovery of an additional Rs60 billion in tax revenue.
Economic Stability and Growth Claims
Atta Tarar noted that Pakistan had moved from a period of economic uncertainty and near-default conditions toward stability.
He claimed that the country’s economy was now on a path of recovery and growth, with improved investor confidence and international recognition of Pakistan’s economic direction.
According to him, the government had successfully steered the country away from default risks and was now focusing on sustainable economic expansion.
Housing and Industrial Development Initiative
The minister also highlighted the government’s Apna Ghar Programme, describing it as a key initiative linked with multiple sectors of the economy.
He said the housing scheme would have a broad impact on at least 12 allied industries, including construction, cement, steel, and related manufacturing sectors.
Officials believe such initiatives are aimed at stimulating job creation and boosting economic activity across different segments of the economy.
FBR Reforms and Anti-Corruption Measures
Atta Tarar further stated that major reforms had been introduced within the FBR to eliminate inefficiency and end what he described as a “culture of favoritism and recommendations.”
He said the reforms were historic in nature and aimed at making the tax collection system more transparent, efficient, and technology-driven.
The minister emphasized that strengthening institutions like the FBR was essential for improving revenue generation and reducing reliance on external borrowing.
Conclusion
Concluding his remarks, Atta Tarar reiterated that the federal budget reflects the fulfillment of the prime minister’s commitments and represents a significant step toward economic stability.
He said that ongoing reforms in taxation and governance would continue to strengthen Pakistan’s financial system and support long-term development goals.
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