IBA Karachi Hosted a Pre-budget Seminar - Pakistan Economic Outlook for Budget 2025-2026
May 13, 2025: IBA Karachi hosted a pre-budget seminar, “Pakistan Economic Outlook for Budget 2025-2026”, critically examining Pakistan’s economic landscape and the upcoming Federal Budget 2025–2026 at the Main Campus, organized by the Center for Business and Economics Research (CBER) at SESS.
Moderated by Dr. S Akbar Zaidi, Executive Director, IBA Karachi, the session featured insightful contributions from Dr. Miftah Ismail, Former Minister of Finance; Dr. Zehra Farooq, Secretary, Income Tax Policy, Federal Board of Revenue (FBR); Mr. Khurram Husain, Business & Economy Journalist, and Ms. Nadia J. Seth, General Manager, SMEDA, Ministry of Industries and Production.
Given the targets set, Dr. Ismail highlighted the challenge the government may face in meeting the revenue targets in the upcoming fiscal year. He emphasized that Pakistan already has higher tax rates than its regional counterparts. Dr. Farooq emphasized that FBR is committed to evidence-based policy making for targeted intervention to expand the tax base and ensure compliance. She stressed that citizens should pay taxes as it is their legal obligation, and documentation of the economy is fundamental.
Mr. Husain contextualized the budget within the broader political economy, warning that defense spending may command a significant share of the upcoming budget given the recent tensions with India. Lastly, Ms. Seth stressed that small and medium enterprises are the backbone of the economy and a much larger share of the informal economy.
The seminar explored pressing issues such as IMF conditions, post-Trump tariffs, climate vulnerabilities, and Pakistan’s fiscal autonomy.
About IBA Karachi:
IBA Karachi, Pakistan’s leading and most prestigious institution of higher education, has nurtured generations of trailblazers, with 20,000+ alumni driving innovation and leading organizations across the globe. Equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure, modern learning spaces, and cutting-edge facilities, IBA offers a world-class education that empowers students to shape the future. Committed to sustainability, IBA fosters an eco-conscious campus community, continuously reducing its carbon footprint through impactful green initiatives. With a rich legacy and an unwavering pursuit of progress, IBA continues to redefine education, leadership, and responsible innovation. Here's to the next 70 years of Visionary Leadership, Academic Excellence, and Sustainable Impact.
