Pakistan, IMF discuss major tax reforms to boost economic growth

Mettis Link News reported that the Ministry of Finance and the International Monetary Fund are running a two-day senior-level workshop in Islamabad on October 20 and 21, 2026. The meeting aims to examine changes that would modernise Pakistan's tax system and make it more conducive to lasting economic growth. Senior officials, IMF and World Bank representatives, international tax specialists, academics and private-sector leaders are taking part.

Federal Finance and Revenue Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb gave the opening remarks alongside IMF directors Jihad Azour and Rodrigo Valdés. Topics include how taxation relates to growth, a single sales tax regime covering the federation and the provinces, an income tax structure that is simpler and more neutral, digital tax administration and provincial tax revenue. Participants will also review compliance practices and seek a broader, fairer and more predictable system.

The workshop will close with a high-level panel that pulls recommendations together, sets priority steps and arranges continued dialogue among participants. The event reflects the government's stated push toward a more efficient, growth-supportive tax framework.