Budget 2026-27: Sales Tax on stationery may increase from 10% to 18%
Key takeaways
- According to sources, the proposal is being reviewed as part of the government’s efforts to broaden the tax base.
- If approved, the higher tax rate will apply to a wide range of educational and office supplies, including notebooks, registers, pens, pencils, and other stationery products, resulting in higher prices for consumers.
- The revised tax rate is expected to come into effect from July 1, 2026.
Why this matters: local context for readers following news across Pakistan and the region.
Add ARY News on Google AAResize ISLAMABAD: Stationery items are likely to become more expensive from July 1, 2026, as the federal government is considering increasing the sales tax on stationery products from 10% to 18% under the upcoming Finance Bill 2026-27.
According to sources, the proposal is being reviewed as part of the government’s efforts to broaden the tax base. The move follows a reported demand by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to withdraw the existing concessionary sales tax rate on stationery items.
If approved, the higher tax rate will apply to a wide range of educational and office supplies, including notebooks, registers, pens, pencils, and other stationery products, resulting in higher prices for consumers.