Canada Global(Web News) The government has decided to increase gas prices once again from January 2024. Caretaker Finance Minister Dr. Shamshad Akhtar while talking to the media said that the IMF should review the tariffs of the energy sector. , the decision to levy additional taxes on various sectors including real estate and retailers is yet to be decided.
The Finance Minister said that achieving the tax target of Rs 9415 billion is the first priority of FBR, additional measures will be taken if there is any reduction in tax revenue. There is a possibility of receiving funds of 2 billion dollars from the World Bank this year. Dr. Shamshad Akhtar said that the rating will improve after the agreement with the IMF, after that the issuance of bonds will be considered. , is likely to get $2 billion in funds from ADB. The Islamic Development Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Bank are also expected to receive a total of $1 billion.
If there is time, the new program will also be discussed with the IMF. He said that the economy of Pakistan has improved, a lot of work is needed for further improvement, it is important for Pakistan to stay in the IMF program. Completion of the $3 billion program is a priority at this time. The new program will also be discussed. The Caretaker Finance Minister said that it is important to stay with the IMF till the increase in exports and creation of local resources.
No pre-conditions have been set for the second tranche of $70 crore. He said that Pakistan will not face external financing gap, efforts are on to get financing from alternative sources, various countries, international organizations and There is a plan to get financing from commercial financing. Earlier, the Caretaker Federal Finance Minister had said that the government expenditure and the price of energy will be reduced. Under the agreement with the Fund (IMF), the cost of energy will be reduced.
