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FBR to launch AI-based system to check false data in tax returns through Finance Bill 2026

May 13, 2026May 13, 2026Shahnawaz Akhter

Government plans technology-driven tax reforms to curb evasion and improve transparency Islamabad: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) is planning to introduce an AI-based tax system through the upcoming Finance Bill 2026 to identify false information in tax returns and strengthen enforcement against tax evasion.

Pakistan achieves 4% GDP growth in 9MFY26, NAC estimates show

May 13, 2026May 13, 2026Mrs. Anjum Shahnawaz

Strong industrial rebound and services expansion support overall economic performance ISLAMABAD – Pakistan recorded 4% GDP growth during the first nine months of fiscal year 2025-26 (9MFY26), according to estimates released by the National Accounts Committee (NAC) on Wednesday.

PM Shehbaz directs banks to make loan access easier for SMEs

May 13, 2026May 13, 2026Mrs. Anjum Shahnawaz

Prime minister emphasizes support for women entrepreneurs and export-focused businesses ISLAMABAD – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday directed commercial banks to take concrete measures to improve access to easy loans for women entrepreneurs and small and medium enterprises (SMEs), while also helping them expand exports.

IMF disburses $1.3 billion to Pakistan, SBP confirms receipt

May 13, 2026May 13, 2026Shahnawaz Akhter

Funds received under IMF Extended Fund Facility and Resilience and Sustainability Facility KARACHI – State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) on Wednesday confirmed the receipt of approximately $1.3 billion from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) under Pakistan’s ongoing financial support programme.

Pakistan budget deficit shrinks sharply to 0.7% in 9MFY26 amid macroeconomic stabilization

May 12, 2026May 12, 2026Shahnawaz Akhter

Record improvement in public finances signals strengthening fiscal discipline and narrowing twin deficits Pakistan has reported a sharp contraction in its budget deficit, which fell to just 0.7% of GDP during the first nine months (July–March) of fiscal year 2025-26, compared to 3.7% in the same period last year.

SBP projects GDP growth up to 4.75% for FY26 despite Middle East war risks

May 12, 2026May 12, 2026Shahnawaz Akhter

Pakistan economy shows resilience as inflation eases, remittances rise and industrial activity maintains momentum KARACHI, May 12, 2026: The State Bank of Pakistan has projected Pakistan’s economic growth for fiscal year 2025-26 in the range of 3.75 percent to 4.75 percent, exceeding the government’s official target of 4.2 percent despite growing risks from the ongoing […]