Pakistan implements IMF-mandated petroleum levy increases and foreign aid inflows surge, while market regulators reshape trading sectors and address tax litigation backlogs amid global economic uncertainties.
Key Points
Pakistan increased Petroleum Levy on petrol and High-Speed Diesel by Rs 13.91 per litre each to meet IMF conditions, a move expected to raise consumer costs across transportation and industrial sectors.
Foreign assistance inflows to Pakistan surged 19.73% during July-March FY2025-26, reaching USD 6.59 billion compared to USD 5.50 billion in the previous period, bolstering external financing.
IMF advised Pakistan to maintain strong macroeconomic policies amid the challenging external environment created by Middle East tensions, emphasizing fiscal discipline during global uncertainty.
Pakistan Stock Exchange launched the country's first Special Purpose Acquisition Company (SPAC-I Limited) beginning trading May 11, marking a new capital-raising mechanism for Pakistani enterprises.
Nepra approved a reduced Rs 42.6 billion investment plan for PESCO after cutting the utility's original Rs 123.8 billion proposal by two-thirds, citing overstated investment needs and consumer protection concerns.
Pakistan LNG Limited issued a new tender for two LNG cargoes on Delivered Ex-Ship basis at Port Qasim, continuing procurement efforts to meet energy demand.
Government plans to establish a scrutiny committee for FBR appeals as tax litigation cases exceed 85,000, with Rs 278 billion stuck in customs disputes due to inconsistent legal procedures.
Business groups urged tariff reforms and lower energy costs ahead of the upcoming budget, with Pakistan Business Council proposing economic revival strategies to boost industrial growth and exports.
PSX extended suspension of three companies and moved Escorts Investment Bank to non-compliant segment due to adverse audit opinions, while launching a new apparel sector with three reclassified companies.
Customs revised valuation methods for smart watches, smart bands and rings into three brand categories citing under-invoicing concerns and potential revenue losses to the government.