Despite widespread speculation, the federal government confirmed on Thursday that the Budget 2025-26 will be presented on June 10, dismissing rumors of a delay due to Eid holidays. Finance Secretary Imdadullah Bosal assured reporters that budget preparations continue in consultation with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
No Change in Budget Date
Bosal stated that while the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting date might be revised, there will be no change in the federal budget’s presentation. The talks with the IMF are ongoing, with discussions focusing on relief for the salaried class and the industrial sector. He also noted that the Annual Plan Coordination Committee (APCC) meeting date remains undecided.
ADB Funding Expected
Adding to fiscal optimism, Bosal revealed that $800 million in Asian Development Bank (ADB) funding is expected to be approved on June 3. This development aligns with efforts to bolster budgetary support through international partnerships.
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Eid Holiday Challenges
Finance Ministry sources had earlier warned of possible delays due to Eid ul Adha, expected on June 7 and 8. With the third day of Eid falling on Monday, June 9, the government may need to declare it a working day. The NEC meeting and the launch of the Economic Survey 2025 are both scheduled for June 9, but conducting both on the same day is considered impractical.
Traditionally, a two-day gap is maintained between the NEC meeting and the budget’s presentation in parliament. If the NEC meeting goes ahead on June 9, the budget could be moved to June 12. However, as of now, the official date remains June 10.
Relief for Salaried Class
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb recently assured that the upcoming budget will offer tax relief to salaried individuals. He emphasized that their income is taxed at the source, and the government is working to reduce their financial burden.
Aurangzeb also highlighted the need for a strategic, reform-oriented budget rather than just a routine fiscal statement.
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