The Government of Pakistan in its endeavour to provide maximum relief to the public has decided to absorb most of the increase in international prices of petroleum products. The prices of MS (Petrol), Kerosene (SKO) and Light Diesel Oil would remain the same w.e.f. 01 December 2020 for the next fifteen days. However, due to significant increase in the international price of High Speed Diesel (HSD), the price of High Speed Diesel has been increased by Rs. 4.00 per liter for the same period.

The following new prices would be effective from 01 December 2020 onwards: (Rs/Liter)

Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance and Revenue Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh chaired a meeting of National Price Monitoring Committee (NPMC) today. Minister for Industries and Production Hammad Azhar, SAPM on Revenue Dr. Waqar Masood, Federal Secretary Finance, Federal Secretary National Food Security and Research, Secretary Industries and Production, Secretary Commerce, Chairman TCP, MD PASSCO, Chairperson CCP and Manager Utility Stores Corporation also participated in the meeting. The Provincial Chief Secretaries joined the meeting through video link.

The National Price Monitoring Committee (NPMC) reviewed the price trend of the essential commodities namely wheat flour, sugar, tomatoes, onions, vegetable ghee, potatoes and chicken on weekly basis. The Finance Secretary while presenting the price trend of essential commodities informed that according to latest SPI released by PBS, there is decline in the prices of 10 essential commodities for instance wheat flour, sugar, onions, tomatoes and chicken while the prices of 11 commodities have increased slightly. Price of 30 items remained stable. Adviser Finance expressed satisfaction over declining price trend in wheat flour, sugar, onion and tomatoes as compared to October 2020.

During the meeting, Adviser Finance urged the need to take necessary administrative measures to reduce high profit margin between Wholesale and Retail levels. It is our responsibility to ensure availability of the essential items for the consumers at affordable prices, he stressed.

The Chair held a detailed discussion with the Provincial Chief Secretaries regarding position of wheat and Sugar stocks in the Provinces and it was informed that at present, sufficient quantities are available to meet existing demand. Adviser Finance emphasized the provincial governments to ensure smooth supply of essential items.

Secretary National Food Security and Research presented a brief update on import of wheat during the meeting. The Logistics Committee played a key role in resolving issues related to wheat and sugar stocks among provinces, he underlined.

Provincial governments and USC should reassess their import requirements for wheat and sugar and take up with the Ministry of NFS&R accordingly and the matter may be placed before ECC for approval. M/o Industries & Production will take up the requirement of wheat and sugar for USC with PASSCO & TCP immediately.

The Chair appreciated the efforts being taken by all the Federal Ministries, Provincial Governments and other relevant stakeholders for price control. He added that the same momentum must be maintained to provide maximum relief to the general public. He also stressed that Provincial governments should workout plan to ensure smooth supply of perishable items to avoid any undue price hike.

Advisor to the Prime Minister on Finance and Revenue Dr. Abdul Hafeez Sheikh addressed the inaugural meeting of the Pay and Pension Commission 2020. The Commission is headed by Ms. Nargis Sethi and is composed of senior professionals from the Public and Private sectors as well as serving Federal and Provincial Secretaries, AJK and GB and other senior officials of all the governments, who were also in attendance.

Speaking on the occasion, the Advisor Finance expressed confidence that the Pay and Pension Commission will come up with a financially viable solution to streamline the basic pay scales of Government employees, admissible allowances and pensions. The Commission would follow a consultative process to resolve the burgeoning expenditure on the Government exchequer. The current model for disbursement of pay and pensions is not sustainable, he added. While assuring the Commission his full support, the Advisor recommended to the Commission that the government is willing to consider Commission’s recommendation even prior to the finalisation of the Report.

Ms. Nargis Sethi, Chairperson of the Pay & Pension Commission briefed about the rationale and mandate of the P & P Commission. She explained that the Commission would review the existing pay and pension structures, allowances, perks & facilities and also to evaluate possibilities of their monetization.

The Chairperson outlined formation of sub-committees which have been assigned terms of reference to deliberate on prevailing pay and pension system across the country. The success of the P & P Commission is dependent on provision of reliable & authentic data in a timely manner from all concerned, she stressed.

British High Commissioner, H.E Dr. Christian Turner called on the Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance and Revenue Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh in Islamabad today.

The Adviser exchanged views with the High Commissioner on matters of common interest. The Adviser briefed him about the measures taken by the Government to lessen the adverse economic impact and protect vulnerable segments of the society during the coronavirus pandemic. The Adviser shared the economic outlook for Pakistan with the High Commissioner and highlighted that Pakistan has registered an upward trend in foreign remittances, FDI, tax collection and had a current account surplus during the first quarter of FY 2020-21. He also explained that owing to the strategy of smart lockdown, the economy has started to recover pace.

The High commissioner offered to provide all possible help from the British Government for the people of Pakistan in mitigating the socio-economic impact of the pandemic. The Adviser thanked the High Commissioner for his assistance.

Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance and Revenue Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh addressed “Annual Microfinance Conference (AMC)” as a guest of honor, held in Islamabad today.

While speaking on the occasion, Adviser Finance outlined National Financial Inclusion Strategy (NFIS) which aims at achieving inclusive economic growth through promotion of small and medium enterprises, easy and affordable access to finance for farmers, facilitation in low-cost housing finance and provision of Shariah compliant banking solutions.

Adviser Finance highlighted the proactive measures taken by the Government to lessen the adverse economic impact of COVID-19 including loans deferred for one year and Rozgar Scheme (payroll Protection). Over 03 million borrowers benefitted with approx. Rs.140 bn loans rescheduled or deferred during the current crisis. The Rozgar Scheme has proved to be highly effective in improving liquidity position and saving millions of jobs, he added.

Due to prudent and timely policies of the Government, Adviser Finance highlighted that economic revival is taking place as Large Scale Manufacturing (LSM) registered 4.8% growth, cement sector 20% growth with 100% capacity utilization and significant increase in sale of cars, motorbikes and tractors during July to October 2020. Moody’s upgraded Pakistan’s economic outlook to ‘stable’ in August 2020. Pakistan is heading in the right direction, he concluded.

Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance and Revenue Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh addressed the second segment of the plenary session of the World Economic Forum (WEF) on Country Strategy Dialogue (CSD) through video link today.

During his virtual address, Adviser Finance briefed the forum that the current Government inherited a very precarious economic situation in 2018 and therefore, had to introduce strict financial discipline to curtail excessive Government expenditure, increase revenue collection, introduce market driven exchange rate, remove large tax exemptions and discourage imports. As a consequence, Pakistan witnessed remarkable improvement in fiscal and current account deficits. Similarly, Pakistan had a primary balance surplus which is unprecedented. All fundamental economic indicators reflected significant improvement before COVID-19.

During COVID-19, Government of Pakistan introduced “Smart Lockdown” to balance the imperative to contain the spread of the disease with the need to keep the economy functional. The Smart lockdown allowed many businesses to re-open or continue operations on limited scale to lessen the adverse economic impact and support the vulnerable segment of the society. To provide relief to vulnerable groups especially daily wage earners, Government of Pakistan gave cash payments to 15 million families under “Ehsaas Emergency Cash Program”.

Adviser Finance outlined that amid COVID-19, Government has taken several initiatives to facilitate agriculture and construction sectors to accelerate economic recovery. A relief package for Small Medium Enterprises (SMEs) shielded against insolvency and joblessness. The recent data complements the strengthening and expansion of the economy in ’’recovery’’ mode. Despite COVID-19, Pakistan has registered an upward trend in foreign remittances and FDI which is a clear reflection of confidence in Pakistan’s economy.

Adviser Finance reiterated that the Government firmly supports private sector as an engine of growth and believes in building institutional capacity for sustainable and inclusive economic growth. “We followed a liberal foreign investment regime and introduced measures to promote ease of doing business in the country”, he stated.

He said that the current leadership welcomes foreign investors and believes in transparency, accountability and openness. Our agenda is to empower people with key focus on human resource development, Adviser Finance concluded.

Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance and Revenue Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh chaired a meeting of National Price Monitoring Committee (NPMC) today. Minister for Industries and Production Hammad Azhar, Adviser to PM on Commerce Abdul Razaq Dawood, SAPM on Revenue Dr. Waqar Masood, Federal Secretary Finance, Federal Secretary National Food Security and Research, Secretary Industries and Production, Secretary Commerce, Chairman TCP, Chairperson CCP and Managing Director Utility Stores Corporation also participated in the meeting. The Provincial Chief Secretaries joined the meeting through video link.

The National Price Monitoring Committee (NPMC) reviewed the price trend of the essential commodities namely wheat flour, Sugar, Tomatoes, Onions, Vegetable Ghee, Potatoes and Chicken on weekly basis. The Finance Secretary while presenting the price trend of essential commodities informed that according to latest SPI released by PBS, there is decline in the prices of wheat flour, sugar, onions while the prices of tomatoes, potatoes and chicken have slightly increased. It was informed that prices of vegetable ghee have remained unchanged. The committee was also informed about the price variation among the Provinces and the profit margin between wholesale and the retail.

The Chair held a detailed discussion with the Provincial Chief Secretaries regarding position of wheat and Sugar stocks in the Provinces. NPMC was briefed that sufficient quantities are available across the country. Adviser Finance emphasized that the provincial governments and all other concerned authorities take immediate proactive measures to control increase in prices.

During the meeting, Adviser Finance urged the representatives of the Provincial Governments to strictly monitor the difference between Retail and Wholesale prices in various commodities to ensure availability of the essential items for the consumers at affordable price.

Chief Secretary Sindh informed that Atta and sugar prices have declined in the province which will further stabilize in coming weeks. He also briefed that the Sindh government has established fair price shops to provide relief to general public. However, the chicken prices are slightly increasing and they are taking corrective measures accordingly.

Additional Chief Secretary Punjab informed that the prices of tomatoes are fluctuating due to seasonal factors but it will stabilize in coming weeks. He further briefed that the prices in the 360 sahulat bazar are low as compared to open market. He also informed that government of Punjab is releasing wheat as per policy as a result the atta prices have stabilized.

The Chief Secretary Khyber Pakhtunkhwa informed that they are releasing five thousand tons wheat daily as a result the prices of wheat flour bag have came down Rs. 20 to 30 in the market. It was also informed that local production of tomatoes in KP has started coming in the market; it is expected that in coming weeks the supply of tomatoes will increase significantly which will bring major decline in the price.

The Punjab and the Sindh Governments also briefed about the new crushing season of sugarcane and underlined that price of sugar would be reduced further due to availability of the local produce in the coming months.

MD, USC apprised NPMC about the sufficient stocks of sugar and wheat at the Utility Stores across Pakistan at subsidized price.

Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance and Revenue Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh chaired the meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet here at Islamabad. Minister for Industries and Production Hammad Azhar, Minister for Economic Affairs Khusro Bakhtiar, Adviser to the PM on Institutional Reforms and Austerity Ishrat Hussain, SAPM on Petroleum Nadeem Babar and SAPM on Revenue Dr. Waqar Masood, also participated in the meeting.

ECC evaluated a proposal submitted by the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations & Coordination and approved, in principle, the provision of technical supplementary grant of US$ 150 million for the purchase of the COVID-19 vaccine. Ministry of Health briefed the ECC that this shall be the first phase of procurement and the amount of vaccine will suffice for the most vulnerable 5% of the population i.e the health workers and the population above the age of 65 years; around 10 million people would be provided a vaccine cover under the above arrangement. ECC further directed the Ministry of National Health Services to discuss the proposal with WB and other donors in coordination with Economic Affairs Division so that they could assist in providing financial facility for the procurement of the vaccine during the first phase and for the procurement of additional quantities in future as needed. The forum also directed the Ministry of NHS to draw a holistic proposal regarding the pricing and risk mitigation mechanism for the procurement of the COVID-19 vaccine for provision on a wider scale, in consultation with the relevant stake holders.

ECC approved the request of the Economic Affairs Division to proceed with the formal request for availing the G-20 Debt Relief for the extended period i.e January-June 2021; approval of the Federal Cabinet would be required for signing of the bilateral debt service suspension agreements.

ECC also approved two technical supplementary grants for “Initiating the Process of Retrenchment of Pakistan Steel Mills Employees (PSM)” for an amount of Rs.19.656 billion and “Prime Minister’s Special Package to Implement SKILLS FOR ALL Strategy as Catalyst for TVET Sector Development in Pakistan for Rs. 500 million. Rs. 689.3 million were also approved as budget re-appropriation for National Information Technology Board (NITB) for fulfilling its various requirements during the meeting.

ECC also approved the proposal by the Ministry of Energy/ Petroleum Division for the allocation of 2.25 MMCFD gas from Umair -1 to M/s OGDCL for sale to M/s Engro at a mutually agreed and negotiated price, under a Gas Sale and Purchase Agreement subject to initiation of Field Development Plan and Development and Production Lease.

ECC was also briefed on the status of wheat import through Trade Corporation of Pakistan. Ministry of National Food Security and Research briefed the forum on the provision of additional 340,000 MT of Wheat, a tender was floated on 11-10-2020; the bids were opened on 18-10-2020 and lowest bid was accepted. The total quantity to be imported is now 2.248 MMT.

Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance and Revenue Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh addressed “THE FUTURE SUMMIT” today through video link. He shared his thoughts on the topic titled “The Future of Pakistan”.

Addressing the Summit, the Adviser Finance stated that Pakistan enjoys natural advantage to its strategic location, agricultural potential, mineral resources, vast coastlines and close proximity to resource rich Central and South Asian States. He said that economic prosperity cannot be achieved without transferring benefits of growth to the masses; an inclusive growth is the key to sustainable economic development which has far reaching benefits for all, he added. The Adviser also outlined Government’s policy of opening up local markets for foreign investors and facilitating them for business development and employment generation in the country.

The Adviser said that the focus of the present government is on building institutions and streamlining procedures for sustainable economic growth. He shared the details regarding unprecedented reforms introduced by the present Government. He further said that the Primary and Current Account Balance are positive for the first time. The government has returned Rs. 5000 billion of foreign loans in 2 years; has given Rs. 250 billion in tax refunds to businesses allowing more liquidity, lucrative packages have been introduced for Export promotion and special package introduced for SMEs. He said the Rs. 1.2 trillion package given by the Government during COVID-19 pandemic is an example of government being sensitive to the sufferings of the people during testing times.

Private sector has to take lead role in providing services and employment in the markets. This is the way to sustainable development, Adviser concluded.

The Adviser thanked the CEO Nutshell for arranging the seminar and inviting him for sharing his views.

Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance and Revenue Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh chaired the meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Privatization (CCoP) here at the Cabinet Division.

The committee considered and approved the “Transaction Structure” for the divestment of 96.6% shares of Heavy Electrical Complex (HEC). CCoP also directed the Ministry of Industries and Production for the amicable and earliest resolution of issues related to regular employees of HEC. CCoP also instructed the Power Division (Ministry of Energy) to consider extending the validity of Type Testing License of Heavy Mechanical Complex.

CCoP also constituted a committee, chaired by Minister for Industries and Production, its members include Chairman Board of Investment, Chairman Privatization Commission, Secretary Finance, Adviser to PM on Austerity and Institutional Reforms and SAPM on Energy, to improve upon the transaction structure for Pakistan Steel Mills Corporation in consultation with the appointed Financial/Transaction Adviser for further incorporation of market requirements.

CCoP also approved the recommendation of the Privatization Commission Board to authorize the Chairman/Secretary of the Privatization Commission to inturn, authorize officers of the Commission to open, operate and close accounts in scheduled banks for the execution of privatization transactions including other operations in compliance with SBP guidelines.

The Financial Adviser appointed by the Privatization Commission (PC) for the sale of properties owned or controlled by the Federal Government briefed the CCoP on the Bid Price for the auctioned properties and sought guidelines for the remaining part of the transactions. ECC was briefed that out of the 27 properties, the bid price for 23 has been received. CCoP directed the FA to recommend a way forward on 2 unsold properties in Multan and Rahim Yar Khan. The committee also directed to engage the Chief Secretaries of KP and Punjab to resolve pending issues relating to 2 properties in Swat and Lahore.

In order to smoothly conduct the process of privatization, CCoP approved a Model questionnaire that would help in gathering all the relevant information regarding the entity that has been approved for privatization. The committee also directed that all Ministries/Divisions and SOEs (having assets in the privatization list) will provide information required in the model questionnaire to the Privatization Commission within 30 days from the date such request reaches the Ministry/ Division/SOE.

CCoP also constituted a Committee to look into various sectoral issues related to the Privatization of National Power Parks Management Company Limited. The Committee will include Adviser Finance and Revenue, Minister for Privatization, Secretaries of Finance, Power & Petroleum Divisions, SAPM on Energy and representatives of NEPRA as members and will meet within week to deliberate on the way forward. This Committee will specify issues and set up guidelines for addressing all the pending issues with relevant quarters.

CCoP approved the Transaction Structure for the Privatization of the House Building Finance Company Limited. The decision was already taken in CCoP of August 21st 2020 but not ratified by the cabinet (for the want of some additional information regarding the profitability and other issues of the entity). The Privatization Commission briefed the CCoP that if the transaction proceeds ahead, the new investor can bring in capital, operational expertise, capacity enhancement of HBFCL and new product development, which would eventually enhance its profitability and market share in housing mortgage for middle and low income groups of the society. CCoP accepted the proposal for moving ahead with the transaction structure for divestment.

In order to fully comply with the requirements of section 35 of the Privatization Commission Ordinance, 2000, CCoP approved the guidelines for all concerned Ministries/ Divisions to ensure that the management of Public Sector Enterprises, falling under the domain of the Privatization Commission, runs smoothly. The guidelines direct all concerned to comply with the model checklist of the actions that may be taken/ should not be taken by an Enterprise on the Privatization list, as well as other instructions issued by the Privatization Commission for each transaction from time to time. The CCoP directed to resolve all the issues concerning a PSE before the initiation of its privatization process and fully cooperate with the PC during the process and inclusion of the members of the Privatization Commission Board and other officers on the Boards of representative PSEs borne on the privatization list, as deemed appropriate on recommendations of the PC Board.

Advisor to the Prime Minister on Finance and Revenue, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Sheikh chaired the meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet at Cabinet Division today. Minister for Industries and Production Hammad Azhar, SAPM on Revenue Dr. Waqar Masood, SAPM on Petroleum Nadeem Baber and Advisor to the PM for Institutional Reforms and Austerity Dr. Ishrat Hussain attended the meeting. Governor State Bank of Pakistan Dr. Reza Baqir also participated through video link.

ECC approved budgetary allocation in favour of NITB for provision of ICT services at the Prime Minister’s Office for Prime Minister’s Kamyab Jawan Programme for FY/2020-21 to the tune of Rs.53 million as requested by the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication.

In light of a summary presented by the Ministry of IT and Telecommunication regarding manufacturing of SIMs/Smart-cards in Pakistan, after due deliberation, the Chair directed to constitute a Committee to examine the proposal and present a report for a way forward within two weeks. The Committee would be chaired by the Minister of Industries and Production Hammad Azhar and would include representatives from the Ministry of IT & Telecom., FBR and Board of Investment (BOI).

Likewise, ECC recommended to form a Committee consisting of representatives from the Ministry of Commerce and Ministry of National Food Security and Research (MNFS&R) to decide a timeline for export of Mango and Kinnow as deemed suitable by the aforesaid committee after due consultation with the stakeholders.

ECC gave concurrence to the proposal by the Petroleum Division, in principal, regarding allocation of gas from Bashar X-IST to third party up to 1.0 MMCFD.

Lastly, a summary was presented by the PIACL, Aviation Division before ECC regarding GOP cash support for the Voluntary Separation Scheme (VSS). After through discussion, it was decided to approve, in principal, the voluntary separation from service scheme for PIA.

ECC also approved four separate Technical Supplementary Grants for the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Interior for various projects during current FY 2020-21.

The Government has decided to reduce the prices of Ms petrol by Rs 1.71 and high speed diesel by Rs.1.79. The new prices of petroleum products will be as under:

Ms petrol Rs. 100.69 / litre
High speed diesel Rs.101.43
Kerosene oil Rs. 65.29
Light diesel oil Rs.62.86.

These prices will be applicable from 16 November 2020.

Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance and Revenue, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, chaired a virtual meeting of FBR Technical Committee today. Chairman FBR Muhammad Javed Ghani and other senior officials participated in the meeting. Mr. Abid Shaban, Chairman of the Committee gave a detailed presentation during the meeting.

After due deliberation, it was decided to engage experts as co-opted members to streamline the working of the Technical Committee. Representatives of the Commerce and Industries Divisions would also be included to further strengthen the Technical Committee.

During the meeting, ‘FASTER’ system of Sales Tax Refund for exporters was appreciated. It was agreed that both FASTER and Rebates Systems would be fine-tuned for more efficient results on priority basis.

Technical Committee directed the Ministry of Commerce to clear the backlog with reference to DLTL refunds expeditiously.

FBR would devise a strategy for liquidation of pending income tax returns. Adviser Finance urged the Technical Committee to simplify relevant procedures ensuring clarity and transparency in revenue collection.

Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance and Revenue, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, chaired the meeting of the Advisory Committee for the release of unsold spectrum of next generation mobile services (NGMS) today at the Finance Division. Minister for Science and Technology, Fawad Chaudhry also participated in the meeting.

The Committee was briefed by Chairman PTA and Secretary, Ministry of Information Technology about the latest developments on the sale of available spectrum of next generation mobile services. The members of Frequency Allocation Board also shared their input on the subject. The Committee was briefed that the process for hiring of the consultant for the sale of available spectrum would be completed within 60 days and report will be prepared and submitted before the Committee accordingly. It is expected that the initial report will be ready by December 2020. The process for the sale of spectrum will follow after the hiring of the consultant and tentatively would be completed within current financial year.

Adviser Finance, as Chairman of the Committee, directed to complete the task of the hiring of the consultant at the earliest. He also stated that the whole process of auction must be transparent and an officer may be designated to apprise the public about the progress regarding sale of spectrum on regular basis. The whole process would contribute towards strengthening and expanding communications / IT Services across the country, would create more job opportunities, and improve the ease of doing business.

The next meeting of the Advisory Committee is expected to take place in December 2020.

Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance and Revenue, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh chaired a meeting here at the Finance Division with Country Director World Bank (WB) Mr. Najy Benhassine, Ms. Melinda Good, Operations Manager WB, Mr Rikard Liden, Lead Energy Specialist (joined through video conferencing) and Mr. Shabih participated from the World Bank while Mr. Tabish Gohar SAPM on Power, Mr. Kamran Ali Afzal Special Secretary Finance and Chairman FBR participated as government’s management team.

While welcoming the Country Director, Advisor Finance outlined that the World Bank team has always been a source of support in pursuing Pakistan’s reform agenda and implementing various development projects for Pakistan. The Country Director thanked the Advisor for streamlining processes for the completion of various projects which are of bilateral interest.

The Adviser and the World Bank discussed a range of initiatives being undertaken in various areas, including energy, debt management, GST harmonisation and strengthening financial management.

The Country Director appreciated the efforts made by the Government on various fronts and offered all possible assistance in preparing an “Immunization program against COVID-19” if the test results of the vaccines are successful and approved for administration. The Adviser thanked the WB team and assured all possible synergy in various ongoing projects.

Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance and Revenue Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh chaired the meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet at the Cabinet Division.

In light of the recommendations of the meeting of the Coordination Committee of the ECC on wheat, held on 8th November 2020, it was decided that a subcommittee under the guidance of SAPM on Revenue would be constituted in consultation with the Ministries of Finance, Ministry of National Food Security and Research (NFS&R) and the provincial governments to work out the total volume of subsidy involved on imported and local wheat.

ECC also discussed the issues related to demand and supply of wheat in the country. The Ministry of National Food Security and Research reported that the wheat imported under the G2G arrangement from Russia will reach the country within this month and there will be no shortage of the commodity in the country. 

It was also decided to form a Logistics Committee in order to resolve the day-to-day logistic issues of wheat import. The Committee comprises of Secretary NFS&R (Convener), Secretaries/representatives of Finance, communication, Maritime Affairs, Commerce, Industries and Production, Railways and MD PASSCO, Chairman TCP, DG NLC, Port Authority, Provincial Governments and Private Transporters. The Committee will deal with day-to-day interagency issues and matters related to priority berthing, axle load, lifting of cargo and any other ancillary matter.

Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance and Revenue, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh chaired Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet at Cabinet Division, Islamabad today.

Minister for National Food Security and Research Syed Fakhar Imam, Adviser to PM on Commerce Abdul Razaq Dawood, SAPM on Revenue Dr. Waqar Masood, Minister for Industries and Production Hammad Azhar, Federal Minister for Planning, Development, Reforms and Special Initiatives Asad Umar and Advisor to the PM for Institutional Reforms & Austerity Dr. Ishrat Hussain attended the ECC. Governor State Bank of Pakistan Dr. Reza Baqir and Provincial Chief Secretaries also participated through video link.

After due deliberation, ECC took key decisions with reference to demand and supply of wheat to stabilize local market and to reduce the wheat flour prices across the country.

As directed by the Prime Minister, a Coordination Committee was constituted to deal with import of wheat and its logistics and distribution to the recipient agencies. The Committee will be chaired by the Adviser Finance and would include Advisor to the PM for Institutional Reforms & Austerity Dr. Ishrat Hussain, Minister for Industries and Production Mr. Hammad Azhar, SAPM on Revenue Dr. Waqar Masood, Federal Minister for National Food Security & Research Syed Fakhar Imam and Governor State Bank of Pakistan Dr. Reza Baqir. It would also include Secretaries Finance, NFS&R, Communications, Commerce, Maritime Affairs, Railways and Chief Secretaries of Balochistan, KPK, Punjab and Sindh for smooth coordination.

After detailed discussion, the ECC approved Minimum Support-Price (MSP) for the wheat crop as Rs.1650 per 40kg. At the same time, current release price was maintained at Rs.1475 per 40kg.

After thorough consultation, ECC also approved grinding ratio of wheat at the base level of 70:30. It was further decided that ratio for the refined varieties of wheat flour would be decided by the Coordination Committee later.

The ECC also approved aggregate release of wheat @38,000 MT per day to the flour mills. Representatives of all the Provincial Governments were on board. This included 25,000 MT by Punjab, 8,000 MT by Sindh, 4,000 MT by KPK and 1,000 MT by Balochistan.

ECC also approved the request by the Government of Punjab to provide additional 0.7 MMT of wheat, out of which 0.4 MMT of wheat will be imported by TCP for Punjab.

Lastly, technical supplementary grant for the settlement of outstanding dues of non-litigant retired employees of Pakistan Steel Mills (PSM) amounting to Rs.11.680 billion was also approved by the ECC.

The Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan, Mr. Nong Rong called on the Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance and Revenue, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh at the Finance Division in Islamabad.
Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh warmly welcomed the new Ambassador and exchanged views on matters of mutual interest during the meeting.

Adviser Finance briefed the Chinese envoy on enhancement of economic cooperation under the umbrella of CPEC, the fragile economy inherited by the present Government, the remarkable economic stability achieved in the pre-COVID-19 period especially in the external sector, the adverse socio-economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the fiscal relief initiatives taken by the Government during the coronavirus crisis. He appreciated the continuous and unwavering support that China has always extended to Pakistan during testing times.

His Excellency Mr. Nong Rong stressed that the China-Pakistan bilateral relationship is an epitome of enduring friendship and brotherhood. While discussing progress on CPEC projects, the Ambassador said that collaboration between the peoples and the Governments of China and Pakistan would continue to expand and strengthen for achieving common objectives and guarantee a prosperous future for both the nations.

Adviser Finance expressed confidence that H.E. Mr. Nong Rong’s tenure would further solidify the friendship between the two brotherly countries. He assured his full cooperation during Mr. Rong’s diplomatic assignment in Pakistan.

Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh held a virtual meeting with the Chief Minister Sindh Murad Ali Shah to discuss an optimum support price for the wheat crop during FY-2020-21. Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Syed Fakhar Imam, Secretary Finance and Secretary NFS&R also participated in the meeting.

Adviser Finance exchanged views with the Chief Minister Sindh for a coherent wheat support price across Pakistan. During the meeting, Adviser Finance stressed the need for agreeing upon a well-coordinated support price to strike a balance between producers and consumers and ensure maximum productivity during the FY 2020-21. Adviser Finance concluded that there is a need to look at a holistic picture for determining a minimum support price for wheat crop, keeping in view, its financial implications in the long run.

Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh chaired the meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet here today.

ECC approved technical supplementary grants for NAB, Ministry of Health for immunization program, Ministry of Religious Affairs on account of Hajj Expenses and for Anti-Narcotics Force.

ECC formed a committee with all the relevant stakeholders (Finance Division, Power and Petroleum Division, Planning Division, SECP, OGRA, OGDCL, PSO, SNGPL, PPL, GHPL, PLL) to prepare a proposal on modalities for clearing the circular debt of the Petroleum Division. The committee will prepare a well-rounded proposal in a month and submit before the ECC. ECC also decided that the issue of circular debt may be considered holistically and a solution may be worked out to resolve the issue.

The Ministry of National Food Security and Research updated the ECC on the situation of wheat import in the country. The Ministry briefed ECC that TCP has opened the 6th tender for 110,000MT of wheat and after price matching the total picked up quantity would be 320,000MT. MNFS&R also informed that there will be sufficient availability of wheat in the country by January 2021 and with the increase in supply, the prices would be lowered eventually. ECC also enhanced the quota of Gilgit Baltistan by another 10,000 MT as per their request (from 150,000 MT to 160,000 MT). The modalities for increased quota for GB shall be decided later.

The Government decided to reduce prices of Ms Petrol by Rs1.57/litter and High Speed Diesel by Rs0.84/litter.

New prices will be as under:
Ms Petrol Rs 102.40/ltr
High Speed Diesel Rs 103.22/ltr
Kerosene Oil Rs 65.29/ltr
Light Diesel Oil Rs.62.86/ltr

New prices will be applicable from 1st November 2020.

Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh chaired the special meeting of the ECC today to approve the “PM’s Package for Rabi Crops-Specially wheat".

In order to give the incentives to the farmers for the upcoming Rabi season, the Federal Cabinet in its meeting held on 27-10-2020 constituted a special committee to design the package to reduce the input cost for the farmers with the special intent to increase the production of wheat in the country.

According to the package Rs.1000/per 50 kg bag will be given as subsidy on fertilizers; DAP, P and K fertilizers. The Federal and Provincial government will share the subsidy in 70% and 30% ratio. On weedicides @ Rs. 250 per acre and fungicides @ Rs.150 will be given by the Federal Government as subsidy. The provinces will distribute the subsidy in their already prevalent manner but will be responsible for ensuring transparency. The Federal funds for the subsidy will be directly disbursed to the provinces by the Finance Division on the basis of their share, keeping in view their system strength and overall outreach. The Ministry of National Food Security would examine the provinces’ demand for funds and after its recommendation Finance Division shall transfer the funds to the provinces. It was also decided that the provinces will expand, improve and up-grade their subsidy disbursement systems. The package will be presented in the next Cabinet meeting on Tuesday for approval by the Federal Cabinet.

Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh chaired the meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet here at the Cabinet Division.

ECC approved the Technical Supplementary Grant of Rs. 109.47 million to the Ministry of Defence for the survey of the coastal areas. The amount was surrendered by the Ministry of Maritime Affairs as the Pakistan Army has offered to assist in the survey.

The Ministry of Maritime Affairs also presented another summary for the waiver of demurrage charges on Afghan Transit Cargo/ Afghan bound containers stranded at Karachi ports. Earlier the government had decided to ask the terminal operators to waive of 75% of the demurrage charges on Afghan Transit containers / cargo landing at ports from 22nd March to 30th September 2020(Covid-19 period) including refund of demurrage charges already recovered from such importers of Afghan bound transit container/cargoes. The Minister for Maritime Affairs advised TO’s to approach their principals for approval of 75% of demurrage charges by 5-10-2020. After the Terminal Operators showed their inability to accede to the Ministry’s request, the matter was brought to the ECC for guidance. ECC directed that the same committee that has been engaged with the terminal operators should again negotiate with the operators to reach an amicable solution to the issue.

In order to facilitate the Telecom sector by the waiver of certain taxes, ECC decided that the proposal may be granted approval in Principle. ECC further directed that a subcommittee may be constituted, consisting of Adviser to the PM on Revenue, Adviser to PM on Institutional Reforms & Austerity, Minister for Industries & production and Adviser Commerce, to prepare a modified proposal in view of the FBR’s response for final approval.

ECC also approved the summary moved by the Ministry of Energy (Petroleum Division) for the allocation of another 38 MMCFD gas from 3 new wells REHMAN 6,7 and 8 to M/S SSGCL, subject to all regulatory approvals. The price of gas will be as per the applicable petroleum Policy. (The gas will be provided as per availability in the winter months).

ECC granted approval for the renewal of the contract with TAVANIR Iran for the purchase of 104MW of electricity subject to vetting by the Ministry of Law & Justice. The contract, if approved by the Ministry of Law and Justice will be valid till 31st December 2021.

The meeting was attended by Minister for Railways, SAPM on Petroleum, Adviser Commerce, Adviser to PM on Revenue and Adviser to PM on Institutional Reforms and Austerity.

The Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, held a virtual meeting with Mr. Shixin Chen, Vice President of the Asian Development Bank today. The Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Division, Mr. Khusro Bakhtiar, Country Director ADB, Ms. Xiaohang Yang, and the Executive Director, ADB, Mr. Shahid Mahmood also attended the meeting.

In his opening remarks, the Adviser Finance appreciated the strong support extended by the ADB for fight against Covid-19. The Adviser acknowledged ADB’s long standing partnership and firm commitment towards Pakistan to bring about essential reforms in priority areas like energy, transport, water and urban services, and the social sector.

The Adviser Finance shared a brief overview on the current economic situation and highlighted the measures taken by the Government to protect the vulnerable from the pandemic. The Government had to shift from its pre-Covid fiscal tightening in order to provide relief to the masses and businesses during these testing times. ADB’s support to the Ehsaas Program was appreciated and areas of mutual interest, like effective resource mobilization and enhancing domestic productivity, were discussed for future collaboration.

Mr. Shixin Chen commended the Prime Minister’s smart lockdown strategy as being ideal in striking a balance between lives and livelihoods. He also lauded the socioeconomic coverage extended to the marginalized section of the society and shared ADB’s commitment to continue its support in the future.

ECC decided to propose to the cabinet Rs 1600 as minimum support price (MSP) for wheat crop 2020-2021. It was briefed to the ECC that the support price mechanism plays a pivotal role in boosting wheat production as it stabilizes market and increases profitability of the farmers. Since 2010-2011, MSP for wheat has been revised 4 times. The new price which has been decided by the ECC is close to the price recommended by Punjab, which is the largest producer of wheat in the country.

ECC was also apprised of the Status of wheat import by the Trading Corporation of Pakistan (TCP). ECC was briefed that till January 2021 TCP shall be able to secure 1 million metric tons of wheat through international bidding. On the request of MNFS&R, ECC decided that the initial allocation of TCP for the import of 1.50 MMT of wheat may be enhanced to 1.80 MMT to cater for the additional requirement of 0.30 MMT demanded by the KP and Sindh for shipment by mid-February. It was also decided that 300,000 MT of wheat shall be imported on G2G basis from the Russian Federation by PASSCO. ECC endorsed the request of Ministry of Food to import another 320,000 from Russia under the G2G arrangement but constituted a Committee of Secretaries of Finance, Commerce and Food Ministry to look into the possibility of import of wheat either by PASSCO or TCP. It was also decided that further tendering of wheat may be stopped and TCP may resort to GTG arrangement for additional procurement of wheat. Keeping in view the arrival of the new crop in March 2021, the forum decided that no vessel of imported wheat should be arranged either in public or private sector beyond February 2021.

ECC also decided to release 50% of the tariff differential subsidy to the Power Division. Finance Division has earmarked Rs.140 billion for 2020-21 as Power Division subsidy. The release of Rs.65.8 billion demanded by the Power Division will be used for payments to the power producers in order to maintain adequate liquidity.

On the summary moved by the Ministry of Industries and Production for the determination of Gas rate for operations of Fatima fertilizer and Agritech, ECC decided that gas rate of PKR 772/MMBTU with Variable contribution margin@ 186 per bag may be offered to both the units for the period 3rd November 2020 onwards. It was briefed to the ECC that GoP’s share at this gas rate has been estimated by NFDC on the basis of RLNG’s last notified rate for July by OGRA, which is approximately 0.42 Billion. Further, actual payment by GoP for price differential sum to SNGPL may vary due to difference in monthly rate of RLNG.

ECC granted approval for the sale of surplus power available at the incremental rate of Rs. 12.96/kwh to all industrial consumer categories, excluding zero-rated industrial consumers, on the incremental consumption over their respective historical consumption or established benchmark. ECC also formed a committee consisting of Dr. Ishrat Hussain, Dr. Waqar Masood, Federal Minister for Industries and Production, Hammad Azhar, Federal Minister for Power, Omer Ayub, SAPM Nadeem Babar and SAPM Tabish Gohar to prepare a proposal to include K-Electric in the package. The Committee will also propose whether the package shall continue for one year or three years. The Committee will also analyze the need for any subsidy that will be involved in the package and source for arranging the same and all the issues that may come up in the calculation and distribution of that subsidy.