KARACHI: Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has said that recent floods are not expected to fuel inflationary pressures, as easing global oil prices and stable macroeconomic indicators underpin the government’s outlook.

Speaking to a delegation from the Pakistan Business Council (PBC) on Wednesday, Aurangzeb said the government is “closely monitoring” price developments, with the Prime Minister’s Steering Committee on Inflation holding regular meetings. He expressed confidence that reduced imported inflation, supported by lower fuel costs, will keep price growth under control despite flood-related disruptions.

Aurangzeb also cited progress on reforms, including state-owned enterprise restructuring, privatisation plans and public sector right-sizing, as foundations for long-term stability. He highlighted stability in the exchange rate and policy rate, saying these trends are expected to continue.

On trade, the minister pointed to tariff talks with the US and the outcomes of the prime minister’s recent visit to China, which included new business-to-business engagements and multiple agreements aimed at deepening bilateral economic ties.

He added that moving the Tax Policy Office from the Federal Board of Revenue to the Finance Division would align tax policymaking more closely with economic strategy.PBC representatives, led by CEO Javed Kureishi and Chairperson Dr Zeelaf Munir, welcomed the government’s economic direction and pledged support in policy research and consultation.

Published in The News International

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