Sindh Assembly Passes Massive Rs3.562 Trillion Provincial Budget Amid Opposition Protests
The Sindh Assembly has approved the 2026-27 provincial budget worth 3.562 trillion rupees, rejecting all opposition cut motions and establishing a new agricultural super tax framework.
Pakistan’s Central Government Debt Hits Rs76 Trillion in September, Up 10% Year-on-Year
Pakistan’s central government debt rises 10% YoY to Rs76.61 trillion in September 2025, driven by domestic and external borrowing, with long-term debt growing and short-term borrowing declining.
SBP Ties Future Interest Rate Cuts to IMF Review and Flood Impact Assessment
The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has indicated that future interest rate reductions will depend on the outcome of the IMF review and the economic repercussions of recent floods, as the central bank adopts a cautious stance despite stabilizing inflation trends.
IMF Presses Pakistan for Transparency Over $11 Billion Trade Data Discrepancy
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has raised concerns over an $11 billion gap in Pakistan’s trade data, urging the government to publicly clarify discrepancies between figures reported by PRAL and PSW, amid growing doubts over the reliability of the country’s external sector statistics.
FBR Announces Revised Withholding Tax Rates on Rental Income for 2025–26
The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has released revised withholding tax rates on rental income for 2025–26. With progressive slabs for individuals and AOPs, and higher flat rates for non-ATL companies, the new policy aims to improve documentation, strengthen revenue collection, and push property owners towards tax compliance.
Pakistan’s Foreign Reserves Edge Higher as SBP Holdings Cross $14 Billion
Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves rose modestly, with SBP holdings increasing by $13 million to over $14.26 billion in the week ending August 15, 2025. Total reserves reached $19.57 billion, supported by higher commercial bank holdings and steady fiscal inflows.
State Bank of Pakistan to Remain Closed from June 6 to 9 for Eid-ul-Adha Holidays
The State Bank of Pakistan has officially announced closure from June 6 to June 9, 2025, in observance of Eid-ul-Adha public holidays. Financial institutions and stakeholders are advised to plan accordingly during this extended break.