In a contentious session marked by heated debates and sharp divisions, the Finance Bill 2024 was passed in the National Assembly today, paving the way for what critics call an “unprecedented tax onslaught” on the Pakistani populace. The bill, which aligns with efforts to secure a substantial IMF bailout, introduces sweeping tax hikes and ambitious revenue targets aimed at stabilizing the nation’s fragile economy.
Key Highlights of the Finance Bill 2024:
- Taxation Tsunami: The budget outlines a staggering Rs18.877 trillion financial plan for the fiscal year 2024-25, including a 40% increase in tax revenue targets to Rs13 trillion. This includes significant hikes in both direct and indirect taxes, sparking outcry from opposition parties who labeled it “economic terrorism” against the people.
- IMF Bailout Negotiations: With Pakistan grappling with its slowest economic growth in South Asia, discussions with the IMF for a bailout ranging from $6 billion to $8 billion have intensified. The Finance Minister, Muhammad Aurangzeb, defended the bill, citing the need to bolster Pakistan’s fiscal health amid mounting debt concerns.
- Sector-Specific Taxes: The bill introduces new taxes across various sectors, including a 48% rise in direct taxes and a 35% increase in indirect taxes. Notably, taxes on textile, leather products, mobile phones, and capital gains from real estate are set to rise, affecting both businesses and individuals.
- Fuel and Travel Levies: In a bid to boost revenue, the government plans to hike levies on petroleum products, with prices expected to rise gradually. Additionally, travelers will face increased taxes on business and club class tickets to destinations like the United States, Canada, and Europe, sparking concerns over heightened travel costs.
- Opposition Criticism: Opposition leaders, including Omar Ayub of the PTI, condemned the bill as detrimental to industry and ordinary citizens, predicting a surge in inflation and economic stagnation. The opposition’s rejection of the budget underscores deep political divisions over economic policy.
- Economic Stability Claims: Despite criticism, Finance Minister Aurangzeb defended the bill, asserting that recent economic indicators show signs of stability, with reductions in deficits and inflation rates. He outlined government plans to increase the tax-to-GDP ratio and implement privatization initiatives aimed at long-term economic recovery.
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The passage of the Finance Bill 2024 sets the stage for a tumultuous fiscal year ahead, with the government facing the dual challenges of steering Pakistan’s economy towards growth while navigating public discontent over increased financial burdens.