Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb in an interview at the World Bank Spring Meetings 2026 with China Global Television Network’s program “The Heat”. PHOTO: SCREENGRAB
ISLAMABAD:
Federal Minister for Finance Muhammad Aurangzeb held a meeting with Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) President Atif Ikram Sheikh and FPCCI’s Policy Advisory Board Chairman Zahid Hussain to discuss key issues related to business environment, financial-sector dynamics and reform initiatives.
The minister emphasised the importance of sustained consultation between the government and private sector to ensure that reforms remain responsive to industry needs and support long-term economic stability. He underscored the need for a predictable and transparent regulatory environment, noting that policy continuity and institutional strengthening were essential for building investor confidence and addressing the needs of the business community.
He highlighted ongoing efforts to advance end-to-end digitalisation, improve compliance systems, and enhance transparency across revenue administration. In that context, he noted progress towards operationalising an independent Tax Policy Office under the Finance Division, formally separating tax policy formulation from the Federal Board of Revenue.
This institutional reform is aimed at strengthening policy formulation, enhancing transparency, and ensuring greater clarity and consistency in the overall tax framework, thereby facilitating a more conducive environment for businesses.
The finance minister and the businessmen discussed the pivotal role of a well-functioning financial system in supporting the needs of the business community and facilitating economic activity. Aurangzeb said that improved access to finance, efficient credit flows, and stronger alignment with the real economy were essential to support investment-led growth and enable businesses to expand and operate effectively.
