By S.M. Inam
ISLAMABAD: Federal Finance Minister Mohammad Aurangzeb has said that the government cannot provide employment for Pakistan’s population of 250 million, stressing that job creation is the responsibility of the private sector.
Speaking at the FPCCI in Lahore, Aurangzeb said the government’s focus was on digitalizing the economy to increase transparency and broaden the tax base. “The salaried class pays more tax and must be given relief,” he said, underlining the importance of easing pressure on income earners.
He highlighted ongoing work in the construction sector, noting efforts to separate real estate from construction for regulatory clarity while linking other related sectors. “Wherever there are difficulties, we will address them,” he said. He also assured the textile sector that measures would be taken within 10–12 days to support its operations.
On property taxes, Aurangzeb said the government was considering reducing rates on multiple levies, balancing sector-specific needs with overall fiscal management. He noted that Pakistan’s agreement with the IMF was beginning to show positive results, restoring confidence among international institutions.
“The economy is on the path of stability and growth,” he said, adding that strict but necessary decisions had prevented Pakistan from slipping into default. While the 2022 floods had severely impacted the economy, he said the country was now equipped to withstand the 2025 floods’ effects. Aurangzeb also highlighted the potential of IT exports, currently valued at $3–4 billion, with the sector capable of reaching $8–10 billion.
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