Saman Siddiqui

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is set to unveil a tax-free Budget 2026-27 exceeding Rs2.3 trillion, with no new taxes, increased development spending, and major allocations for merged districts.

Pakistan will continue electricity subsidies for consumers using under 200 units per month, Energy Minister Awais Leghari says, while introducing a QR code-based verification system to ensure targeted and transparent distribution of subsidies and prevent misuse.

Punjab Budget 2026-27 likely in second week of June with Rs6 trillion outlay, no new taxes, Rs1.6 trillion development allocation, salary hikes, and continued subsidies.

FBR conducts major crackdown in Sahiwal, recovering Rs4 million tax from a Cheezious outlet after detecting sales discrepancies during surprise monitoring under zero-tolerance policy.

Pakistan and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have finalized key understandings on the FY2026 budget framework, including revised tax targets, spending plans, and potential relief for salaried class amid ongoing fiscal tightening and revenue reforms.

Pakistan Sugar Mills Association warns of 750,000-ton sugar surplus and urges government approval for exports, saying $500 million in foreign exchange could be earned amid falling local prices and rising production.

Gerry’s dnata, Pakistan’s largest aviation ground and cargo handling company, faces backlash after rejecting allegations.

Global investigation alleges VFS Global pushed visa applicants toward paid optional services, raising concerns over transparency, pressure sales, and outsourcing ethics in visa processing systems.

Iran has accused the EU of double standards, calling its criticism of Tehran’s right to self-defense hypocritical and urging European leaders to uphold international law.

Kuwait’s air defense systems intercepted hostile missile and drone attacks, triggering nationwide sirens and emergency alerts amid rising Gulf tensions linked to the Iran-US conflict.