Talking to the media, the minister shared that all relief details will first be presented to the IMF, so he can’t reveal them to the public just yet. But he added that 98% of the budget suggestions from both public and private sectors have been received.

He assured that any suggestions that are not accepted will be explained to the concerned departments. Before the budget is officially presented, all key partners will be informed about which ideas will be implemented, he said. He clearly stated that no changes will be made to the budget after July 1, so it can be implemented without delays.

Speaking about the IMF, Aurangzeb expressed hope that the IMF Executive Board will approve the staff-level agreement in May. He said Pakistan has met all required targets, and tax collection from traders has improved. However, he insisted that the new trader-friendly scheme should not be linked to tax pressure.

The minister added that the government is making the tax system simpler and more transparent. They are designing a tax form that any person can fill out easily. For Pakistan’s economy to grow, all sectors must play a role, especially in exports, he said. “Pakistan has products that can become global brands,” he noted.

He further stated that Pakistan is planning productive trade talks with the United States, which is the country’s biggest trade partner. A Pakistani delegation will soon visit the U.S. on the Prime Minister’s direction for positive negotiations, he maintained.