Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb on Wednesday said he was confident inflation would remain under control, supported by easing global oil prices, while the government focuses on flood relief, recovery and infrastructure rebuilding.
He made the remarks during a meeting with a Pakistan Business Council (PBC) delegation, led by CEO Javed Kureishi and Chairperson Dr Zeelaf Munir, at the Finance Division.
Inflation outlook and flood response
Aurangzeb told the PBC team that the economy is showing positive signs, with indicators moving in the right direction. He said the government is actively managing the flood crisis, outlining measures for rescue, relief and rehabilitation, while applying lessons from the 2020 floods.
On prices, he said lower oil rates are helping contain imported inflation. The Steering Committee on Inflation, formed by the prime minister and chaired by him, had already met once, with another meeting set later this week.
Reforms and trade opportunities
The finance minister pointed to progress in reforms of state-owned enterprises, the privatisation programme and efforts to right-size the public sector. He said these steps are crucial for building long-term economic stability.
Aurangzeb also highlighted the importance of improving ports, roads and rail networks to boost domestic commerce and unlock export potential.
On trade, he shared that tariff negotiations with the United States could bring opportunities for exporters, given shifting regional dynamics. He encouraged PBC to take a lead role in business-to-business initiatives to strengthen investment and trade ties.
Engagements with China and tax changes
Aurangzeb briefed the delegation on the prime minister’s recent visit to China, which included strategic dialogues, business forums, working groups and multiple agreements. He said the visit drew record private sector participation and opened fresh avenues of cooperation.
He also confirmed that the Tax Policy Office would be moved from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to the Finance Division to ensure closer alignment between tax measures and broader economic policymaking.
The PBC delegation welcomed the government’s efforts, pledging support for policy research and committing to continued consultation with the finance ministry.
