Govt to reduce burden on salaried class in budget: FM Aurangzeb

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has announced plans to reduce the financial burden on the salaried class in the upcoming budget. 

Speaking to media representatives in Lahore on Sunday, he highlighted positive economic indicators, including a rise in remittance senders to 35 million and an increase in Roshan Digital Account inflows. Muhammad Aurangzeb emphasized the private sector’s vital role in driving the country’s economic progress, stating that foreign exchange reserves are steadily growing. 

The Minister also expressed his commitment to supporting the construction industry while ensuring no gambling activities in real estate. He further stated that reforms in the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) were in progress, aimed at making the tax system more efficient and acceptable to the public. The manufacturing sector and salaried class have borne the brunt of taxation, and now all sectors must contribute their fair share to the economy, he added.

The finance minister reiterated that sustained economic growth was a priority, and the government was committed to ensuring policy continuity to support the private sector. “The real progress will come from the private sector, and we must provide them with a conducive policy framework,” he noted. Mr Aurangzeb also dismissed concerns over overseas Pakistanis' sentiments, saying that during his recent visits to Saudi Arabia, Dubai, and Washington, he observed no discontent among expatriates. “We are grateful for their contributions, and we expect remittances to reach $35 billion this year,” he said. 

He also pointed out the steady increase in the Roshan Digital Account, a key initiative to attract foreign investments from Pakistanis abroad. Commenting on sports, the finance minister expressed his full support for the national cricket team, commending their performance. “The team played with determination, and we extend our best wishes to them,” he concluded.