Punjab is scheduled to present a budget free of taxes on June 12.
Saad khan 
Islamabad: Provincial Finance Minister Mujtaba Shujaur Rahman announced that the Punjab government will present a tax-free budget for the fiscal year 2024–25 on June 12.
Rahman stated that the budget presentation aligns with the federal budget announcement, scheduled for June 11. However, he noted that if the federal government changes the date, Punjab will adjust its budget presentation to June 14.
Meanwhile, anticipation surrounds the federal budget for 2024–25, with expectations of increased inflation due to International Monetary Fund (IMF) directives. The IMF's calls for reducing sales tax exemptions may lead to price hikes in commodities such as milk, tea, sugar, rice, flour, and packed milk.
Pressure persists to impose a 5–10% sales tax on zero-rated sectors and to end tax exemptions in FATA and PATA by June 30, as part of budget proposals for FY2024–25.
Highlighting key initiatives, Rahman disclosed plans to launch the Punjab Kisan Card on August 14, accompanied by a Rs 400 billion package. Furthermore, discussions with foreign companies are underway to enhance public transportation in the province.
In related news, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's visit to China from June 4 to 8, at the invitation of President Xi Jinping, was confirmed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. During his visit, Sharif is scheduled to visit Xi’an, Shenzhen, and Beijing.
