KARACHI: Business leaders across Pakistan have welcomed the relief package announced by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, calling it a timely intervention to ease mounting cost pressures on industry and exporters. However, foreign investors have simultaneously raised concerns over fresh tax demands issued by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).
The prime minister’s package includes a reduction of Rs4.04 per unit in electricity tariffs for industry, lower wheeling charges, and a cut in the export refinance scheme rate from 7.5% to 4.5%. Exporters will also receive “blue passports” to facilitate international business travel.
While domestic industry leaders described the measures as bold and supportive, the Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI) urged authorities to show flexibility on tax compliance deadlines. Its chief executive, M. Abdul Aleem, suggested that outstanding super tax demands be adjusted against pending tax refunds before requiring additional payments, calling for a more business-friendly approach.
Export associations echoed the positive sentiment. Representatives of the Pakistan Hosiery Manufacturers and Exporters Association said the energy and financing relief would help struggling exporters remain competitive amid high global cost pressures and liquidity constraints.
Similarly, the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry noted that lower power tariffs and cheaper financing could stimulate production, revive industrial activity, and support export growth.
Despite fiscal challenges, the relief package has been widely viewed as a step toward stabilizing industry, though tax policy uncertainties continue to weigh on investor confidence.
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