Speaking at a ceremony hosted by the Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FCCI), the finance minister said the government is actively engaging with traders, industrialists, and business leaders across Pakistan to better understand their challenges and develop practical, business-friendly solutions.

Government Engaging Directly with Business Community

Aurangzeb stated that federal officials are visiting chambers of commerce in different cities to hear the concerns of entrepreneurs firsthand. The government s objective, he said, is to remove barriers to doing business, improve the investment climate, and create an environment that encourages sustainable economic activity.

He emphasized that strengthening collaboration between the public and private sectors remains a key priority for achieving long-term economic stability and growth.

Business Input to Shape Future Budgets

The finance minister highlighted that the business community, industrial associations, and trade organizations played a significant role during the preparation of the recent federal budget.

He announced that consultations for the next fiscal year s budget will begin much earlier, ensuring that stakeholders  recommendations are incorporated into policymaking and future economic reforms.

Call for Greater Tax Compliance

Muhammad Aurangzeb urged traders and chambers of commerce to work closely with the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to make Pakistan s tax system more transparent and efficient.

According to the minister, expanding the tax base and improving revenue collection will strengthen the national economy while providing greater financial resources for development projects and public welfare initiatives.

Economic Stability Showing Positive Signs

Discussing Pakistan s economic outlook, Aurangzeb noted that government policies have contributed to a significant reduction in the policy interest rate.

However, he acknowledged that regional tensions involving Iran and broader global economic uncertainty have led to a slight increase in recent months. Despite these challenges, he expressed confidence that continued macroeconomic stability would deliver more positive economic outcomes in the future.

More Incentives for Exporters and SMEs

The finance minister reiterated the government s determination to provide every possible facilitation to exporters in order to increase Pakistan s exports, strengthen foreign exchange reserves, and stimulate industrial production.

He described the export sector as a cornerstone of the national economy and said its needs would continue to receive priority attention.

Aurangzeb also stressed that while running businesses is the responsibility of the private sector, it is the government s duty to create an enabling environment where investment, trade, and industry can flourish without unnecessary obstacles.

He assured the business community that financing opportunities and financial support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) will be expanded, enabling young entrepreneurs, industrialists, and emerging investors to grow their businesses and contribute to Pakistan s economic development.

Public-Private Partnership Key to Economic Growth

Concluding his address, Muhammad Aurangzeb said the government will continue working closely with the private sector to promote sustainable economic growth, attract investment, and expand commercial activity.

He emphasized that a strong economy is the foundation of national prosperity, and meaningful collaboration between the government and businesses will play a vital role in securing Pakistan s long-term economic future.