Govt delays FY26 budget to June 10 amid Eid-ul-Adha festivities

Govt delays FY26 budget to June 10 amid Eid-ul-Adha festivities

Islamabad, May 23, 2025 – In a dramatic twist to Pakistan’s economic calendar, the eagerly awaited budget 2025–26 has been delayed by an entire week, now slated for unveiling on June 10, 2025.

This surprising move comes as the nation prepares for the grand celebrations of Eid-ul-Adha, expected around June 7, depending on the moon sighting.

The announcement, made by Khurram Schehzad, adviser to the finance minister, via a post on X (formerly Twitter), confirmed the new date for the federal budget 2025–26. “The Federal Budget for FY 2025–26 of Pakistan will be presented on June 10, 2025,” he declared. Adding to the pre-budget excitement, Schehzad also revealed that the Pakistan Economic Survey 2024–25 will be launched a day prior, on June 9, 2025.

This unexpected delay has sparked widespread speculation. Sources suggest that the decision was influenced not only by the religious festivities but also by the absence of several high-profile officials and key business leaders, many of whom are currently in Saudi Arabia for Hajj. Their absence during such a critical fiscal announcement was deemed impractical for smooth coordination and effective communication.

Additionally, insiders believe the postponement is a strategic maneuver by the government to avoid the potential public backlash that budget announcements often provoke. With Eid celebrations being a significant event across the country, authorities seemingly opted to sidestep any discontent that new taxes or financial policies in the budget 2025–26 might ignite.

By shifting the date, the government aims to allow citizens to enjoy Eid without the shadow of fiscal uncertainty. The upcoming budget 2025–26, already being dubbed one of the most crucial in recent years, will reveal Pakistan’s strategy to stabilize the economy amidst ongoing domestic and global challenges. As the countdown to June 10 begins, the nation waits with bated breath for what could be a game-changing budget announcement.