All eyes on Pakistan Budget 2026–27 as public awaits relief

ISLAMABAD – The federal government is set to present its budget for the fiscal year 2026–27 in the National Assembly today, with an estimated outlay of around Rs17.5 trillion, as public attention remains focused on expected relief measures. Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb will present the budget as the NA session set to start at 3pm. Tax Target. The budget reportedly includes a proposed tax revenue target of Rs15.267 trillion. A significant portion of the budget has been allocated for debt servicing, amounting to Rs7.824 trillion, reflecting the continued financial burden on public finances. Defence Budget The defence allocation for the upcoming fiscal year is expected to stand at Rs3 trillion. Salaries and Pensions In addition, the government is considering a possible increase in salaries and pensions for government employees, according to sources. The budget also includes a planned petroleum levy collection target of Rs1.727 trillion. On the external sector side, the government is expected to set an export target of $32.8 billion, while imports are projected at $70 billion. Officials indicate that no new development schemes are likely to be launched in the upcoming budget. Instead, focus will remain on completing already ongoing development projects. Ahead of the budget presentation, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called a federal cabinet meeting at Parliament House to approve the budget. The meeting is scheduled for 2:30 pm today, where Finance Minister Aurangzeb will brief cabinet members on the key features before its presentation in the National Assembly at 3:00 pm.