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Dr. Khaqan Hassan Najeeb, Spokesperson, Ph. 9223619, D.G. (Media) Mr. Akhtar Munir, Ph. 9211707, Public Relations Officer Miss Mehrin Liaqat Ph. 9211707, Cell: 0336-4186647.

Adviser to PM on Finance and Revenue chaired a meeting of ECC

Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance and Revenue, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, chaired the meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet, here today. A report on the wheat situation in the country was presented in the ECC by Ministry of National Food Security and Research. It was briefed during the meeting that adequate stocks of wheat are available in the country to cater for the needs of the population. It was also highlighted that the procured quantity of wheat during this year is 33% less than the procured quantities of wheat during the corresponding periods of last year. The recent hike in prices of wheat and wheat flour is also a point of concern.  The ECC decided to impose a ban on export of wheat/wheat flour and also asked that a meeting of National Price Monitoring Committee may be convened to suggest measures to control the price hike trend of ‘Roti’ and other wheat products in the local market with the cooperation of the provincial governments.

The ECC also approved National Fertilizer Marketing Limited  (NFML) to fix the Dealer Transfer Price (DTP) of 50 kg imported Urea Bag at Rs.1800 which is Rs.166 less than the prevailing average market price of Sona Urea i.e. Rs.1966 per 50 kg bag. The difference in Urea import price and approved dealer transfer price for NFML dealers has been estimated at Rs.937.92 million; NFML has also been directed to ensure enforcement of this price through coordination with provincial governments.

The ECC allowed PIA Corporation Limited to make a re-appropriation in its already approved budget of Rs.24 billion for the upgradation of in-flight entertainment (IFE) system of its fleet for 8 Boeing-777 aircrafts. The project will cost Rs.700 million. It was also briefed during the meeting that the measures will improve the occupancy of the airline to 80 per cent from the current level of 70 per cent.

          The ECC endorsed the decision of the Governing Council of Pakistan Bureau of Statistics to change the base of price statistics from 2007-08 to 2015-16. The new base 2015-16 of price statistics has the following features:

• Inclusion of rural market.
• Introduction of population weight based on recent Population Censes 2017.
  
• Computation of indices based on Weighted Geometric Mean.
  
• Introduction of consumption quintiles instead of income quintiles.
  
• Introduction of consumer weighted approach to compute gas prices for combined income group.
  
• Introduction of GST, other taxes Fuel Price Adjustment to compute electricity tariffs using consumer weighted approach.
  

It was also decided that for the purpose of comparative analysis, the old series of 2007-08 will continue to be published for another year along with the new series of 2015-16.

On the summary moved by Ministry of Commerce and Textile, it was decided that the scrap slag, ash and residues containing metals, arsenic or their compounds (containing mainly Aluminum under PCT 2620.4000) may be moved from Appendix-A (Banned Items) to Appendix-B (Restricted Items) of the Import Policy Order, 2016. However, in order to forestall the chances of import of hazardous waste, the import may be subject to the following conditions:

(i)           Importable only by industrial consumer having recycling facilities, subject to NOC from Ministry of Climate Change and duly certified by provincial Environmental Protection Agency (Federal EPA, in case of Islamabad Capital Territory).
(ii)          Provision of a pre-shipment Inspection Certificate and consent of Focal Point of Basel Convention from the country of export to the effect that the waste/scrap is non-hazardous as defined in the Basel Convention.
(iii)        The imported consignments of the registered recycling plants shall be cleared from seaport only.

The ECC also considered and approved the notification of Minimum Indicative Prices (MIP) of tobacco for year 2019-20. As per section 8 of the Pakistan Tobacco Board Ordinance 1968, the MIP for different grades of various types of tobacco are to be notified by the Federal Government.  The following prices were suggested for notification:

The ECC also allowed that new PCT codes, as created in the Pakistan Customs Tariff through the Finance Act, 2019, may also be incorporated in SRO 693(I)/2006 dated 01.07.2006 so that levy of additional customs duty collected on those parts of Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) of engine capacities 1001cc to 1500cc and 1501cc to 1800cc which have been localized, may be appropriately accounted for under separate PCT codes.

The report on National Poverty Graduation Programme of US $ 82.60 million was also submitted for compliance of the ECC by the Secretary, Economic Affairs Division.

Among others, the meeting was attended by Minister for National Food Security & Research, Sahibzada Muhammad Mehboob Sultan; Minister for Planning, Development & Reform, Makhdoom Khusro Bukhtiar, Minister for Privatization, Muhammadmian Soomro, Minister for Railways, Sheikh Rashid Ahmed, Adviser to PM on Commerce, Textile, Industry & Production and Investment, Abdul Razak Dawood; Adviser on Institutional Reforms and Austerity, Dr. Ishrat Hussain; SAPM on Petroleum, Nadeem Babar; Governor State Bank of Pakistan, Reza Baqir and Chairman, Board of Investment, Zubair Gilani.

Adviser to PM on Finance and Revenue chaired a meeting of Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC)

Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance and Revenue, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Sheikh presided over the meeting of the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC), here today. The meeting was attended by Federal Minister for planning Development and Reforms, Minister for Finance KP, Chairperson P&D Board Sindh and adviser to PM on Institutional Reforms and Austerity and  other senior officials of Federal and provincial governments.

ECNEC considered and approved “Dasu hydropower project (stage 1) Revision of cost for land acquisition and built up of property”, subject to opinion of the Law Ministry on the revision of cost of land and built up property after imposition of section 4 of Land acquisition Act of 1894.  The chair also directed that the Ministry of Law may be requested to give its opinion in a week’s time to save the project from further delay. The project is financed by World Bank and WAPDA and is designed to provide 4,320 MW of electricity in two stages.

ECNEC also approved the project for the evacuation of Power from 2,160 MW Dasu HPP stage 1, Dasu to Islamabad via Mansehra at a revised cost of 90831.69 million with FEC of Rs. 79,584.20 million. The changes in the cost of the project occurred due to changes in the exchange rate, it was briefed to the meeting. The Chair, observing that cost revision due to exchange rate fluctuation has become a regular exercise at ECNEC, directed Ministry of Planning to devise a mechanism to incorporate the exchange rate fluctuations in the cost of the project.

ECNEC also considered and approved the “Engineering Procurement and Construction of Balakot Hydropower project, Manshera Khyber Pakhtunkhwa at the updated cost of 85,912.926 million with the FEC of Rs.35,049.714 million. The Project will be sponsored and executed by Energy and Power Department, Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The Financing for the project shall be from Asian Development Bank (80%) and (20%) from annual development Program of government of KP. The Chair also directed to form a committee to look into the matter of filing a petition to NEPRA for reference tariff for Public Sector power projects at EPC as well as COD stage. Minister for Planning, members from NEPRA, Secretary Power Division, and Secretary Planning KP shall be members of this committee.

While reviewing the “500 kV HVDC Transmission System between Tajikistan and Pakistan for Central Asia- South Asia transmission interconnection (CASA1000) Modified” the chair directed that the project may be brought back to the next meeting of the ECNEC by the Ministry of Planning, Development and Reforms after another round of consultation with the Project stakeholders after detailed discussion on export of energy as well to ensure its viability.

ECNEC also approved two Power projects on the same observations; “the 1,223 MW(Gross) combined cycle Power Plant Balloki, District Kasur” and “1230MW (Gross)Combined Cycle power plant at Haveli Bahadur Shah, District Jhang( 2nd revised PC1)”. ECNEC had the following observations for both the projects:

• Construction of Housing complex and allied facilities may be allowed at a rate of Rs.5000/sq ft already permitted by NEPRA as an ex-post facto case.
• Sponsors should justify land acquisition for Housing Complex without prior approval of ECNEC and award design work to Consultants
• This approval would in no way constitute endorsement of the fiduciary/ management decisions of NPPMCL board regarding internal cost adjustments/ re-appropriation within the approved PC 1, as these are not in the ambit of CDWP/ ECNEC and are the responsibility of the board / PAO

ECNEC also approved the 220kV Head Faqirian Grid Station Along with 220 kV double Circuit Transmission line from Head Faqirian to Ludewala at an updated cost of Rs.5812.08 million including FEC of Rs.2991.42 million. The chair also directed that the Planning Commission to undertake an exercise of Project evaluation before bringing the projects to ECNEC,  Dr.Ishart Hussain shall lead the exercise for the evaluation of the projects.

ECNEC also approved Extension of Intensive Care Department of Mother-Child Health Centre and children hospital at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) at an updated cost of Rs.4,270.588 million with FEC of 3,874.138 million (FEC: Japanese Yen: 3620.296 million as foreign aid from the government of Japan through JICA).

ECNEC approved Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Integrated Tourism Development Project at the cost of 17,000 million rupees. (World Bank Loan Rs.14,000 million and government of KP contribution 3,000 million). The project aims at development of tourism at KP for economic growth, employment and revenue generation, progress of local communities, construction of roads and creating enabling environment for private sector operations. The project will be completed by the end of financial year 2022-2023; the World Bank loan will be repaid by government of KP.

For the “Establishment and Operation of Basic Education, Community Schools in the country”, ECNEC approved a revised cost of Rs.4,629.742 million subject to the condition that honoraria to remaining BECS teachers with pending verifications may be made as per the ECNEC decision of January 9, 2019. The ECNEC also gave prior approval for paying off major cost of this project till December 2019 with the instructions to devise a mechanism for facilitating the process of transition of this project to the provincial governments. The Ministry of Inter Provincial Coordination, Secretary Ministry of Federal Education & Professional Training, Secretaries of Provincial educational departments, Secretary Finance and Secretary Planning and Development with Adviser to Prime Minister on Institutional Reforms, Dr. Ishrat Hussain shall devise a plan for the smooth transition of this programme from the federal government to the provincial governments, as education is a devolved subject to be looked after by the provinces.

ECNEC approved the establishment of Pakistan Space Centre at Chakkri, Rawalpindi District at an updated cost of Rs.29,506.233 million including FEC of Rs.22,095.67 million.

The Dualization of Kuchlak-Zhob section of N-50 (305 km) was also approved by ECNEC at a rationalized cost of 63,601.56 million without FEC. The road section is located in province of Balochistan.

The Competitive and Livable City of Karachi Project (CLICK) with the sponsorship of government of Sindh and World Bank/IPF-IBRD was also approved at a total cost of Rs. 33,600 million including World Bank loan of 32,200 million. It is estimated that the project will be completed by June 2024.

Five Member Delegation from Emirates NBD Bank called on the Adviser to PM on Finance and Revenue

A five member delegation from Emirates NBD Bank called on the Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance, Dr. Abdul Hafiz Sheikh, here this morning. The delegation was led by Mr. Fahad Al Qasim, CEO Emirates NBD Capital Limited.

The Adviser welcomed the delegation and expressed confidence that mutually beneficial relationship with the bank will further strengthen in future.

After thanking the Adviser for an opportunity to meet the finance team, the CEO of NBD (National Bank of Dubai) gave a brief introduction of his bank and the financial services they offer. He informed that Emirates NBD, is the largest banking group in the region by assets. The Group has operations in the UAE, Egypt, India, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and representative offices in China and Indonesia, briefed the CEO.

The Adviser thanked the delegation for its visit and said that they are welcome to bid for ventures that the government is planning under various programs.

Adviser to PM on Finance chaired a meeting on Financial Models for Naya Pakistan Economic Zone

Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance, Dr. Abdul Hafiz Sheikh chaired a meeting at the Finance Division. The meeting was called to analyze the different Financial Models for “Naya Pakistan Economic Zone alongside Islamabad Expressway”.

Chairman Naya Pakistan Housing Association, Lt. Gen ® Ameer Ali Haider briefed the meeting on the overall details of the project. The chairman briefed the meeting that the project will be completed in 3-4 phases starting from Faizabad and ending near Rawat. FWO is working with NPHA on the feasibility of the project and the idea is to complete the first phase in a year’s time under the public private partnership mode. Different financial models were looked into for the completion of the project in consultation with State Bank of Pakistan and FBR.

The Adviser said that the government supports the development of the housing sector as it has the potential of providing employment opportunities to the youth, he also assured of providing all possible assistance for any financial plan that is prepared keeping in view the requirements of all the relevant laws of the country. He emphasized on the need to incentivize the real estate sector as it can attract investment from Pakistani Diaspora. The Adviser further directed to hold another meeting with all the relevant stakeholders in the current week for analyzing any financial plans prepared by NPHA for this project.

Adviser to PM on Finance chaired a meeting of Economic Coordination Committee (ECC)

Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, chaired a meeting of Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet, here today. Petroleum Division briefed the Committee about the utilization of Railways services for transportation of petroleum products to upward country. In order to enhance supply of PSO products to Pakistan railways, the Committee directed the Petroleum Division to divert the surplus business to Pakistan Railways that offers lowest freight charges as compared to other modes of transportations.

Giving presentation to ECC, the Ministry of Maritime Affairs emphasized about the urgency of establishment of third terminal at Port Qasim Authority (PQA) so as to meet the gas shortage in the country in the years ahead. In order to expedite the process of establishing of 3rd LNG terminal, the Committee approved the resolutions of the PQA’s Board by exempting the Authority from public tendering for appointment of legal consultant through negotiated tendering. The Committee also approved the resolution of the Board to allow amendment in PQA master plan to accommodate the prospective 3rd LNG Terminal. It may be recalled that the ECC in its decision, in February 2019, had directed Ministry of Maritime Affairs to expeditiously work on setting up of an additional LNG terminal. Ministry of National Food Security and Research updated the Committee about wheat stock position in the country.

No increase in POL prices for July 2019

To provide relief to the consumers, the government has decided not to increase in the prices of petroleum products for the month of July 2019 and the existing price of June 2019 will remain unchanged for the next month.

Adviser to PM on Finance chaired a meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC)

Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, chaired a meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet, to review the demands of various Ministries/Divisions, here today. In order to promote Maritime Sector and strengthen the shipping industry in the country, the Committee approved the proposal of Ministry of Maritime Affairs to extend the existing tax incentives to the shipping sector from 2020-2030, subject to vetting by Law Division.

The Power Division briefed the Committee about the cash and non-cash settlement for power sector. The ECC decided that Industrial Support Package (ISP) and AJK power sector subsidy would be adjusted against the outstanding loan of government of Pakistan from power sector entity. It also approved the proposal of Power Division to provide additional power supply for three hours to the tube-wells, domestic and commercial consumers of Baluchistan province for initial period of three months. In this regard, an amount of 9 billion was approved for three months which is to be provided in three tranches. The Committee would review the performance of QESCO on monthly basis whether the recovery drive against the power sector defaulters is producing the desired results.  The ECC decided to give a deadline of three months to Power Division to resolve the issue of recovery from around thirty thousand eight tube-wells of Baluchistan. The Committee directed Law Division to accelerate the recovery campaign against the defaulters and submit a report to ECC on monthly basis.

The Committee acceded to the proposal of Petroleum Division to allow import of Petroleum products by PSO under Saudi Fund for Development. It also reviewed various slabs of gas tariff.

The ECC approved Supplementary and Technical Supplementary Grants of various Ministries/Divisions.

Adviser to PM on Finance chaired a meeting to discuss the framework to facilitate the Farmers

Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, chaired a meeting here today to discuss the framework to facilitate the farmers through Warehouse Receipt Financing (WHRF).

The Adviser was briefed about the importance of storage infrastructure for agriculture commodities which could save billion of rupees and make agriculture sector more competitive. In order to address the issue of post-harvest losses and enhance farmers’ access to agriculture credit, the meeting emphasized to introduce a formal commodity management and Warehouse Receipt Financing System. The meeting discussed the key challenges facing the implementation of WHRF in Pakistan, including lack of regulatory framework for Collateral Management Companies (CMCs) and lack of capacity of Banks and other stake holders to facilitate farmers in provision of WHRF.

The meeting discussed a draft law for Collateral Management Company. The proposed law will create linkages between Warehousing, collateralization, issuance of electronic warehousing receipt (eWHR) and eWHR Financing. The Adviser appreciated the efforts made by SECP and SBP in establishing the Warehouse Receipt Financing Facility in Pakistan. He said that the WHRF would help reducing post-harvest losses in agriculture sector. It was also decided to hold another meeting in the next month to review the progress about the subject. The Adviser directed the concerned quarters that the final draft of proposed law should be submitted in 4 to 5 weeks’ time after consultation from all the relevant stakeholders.

The meeting was participated by Chairman SECP, Governor SBP, Acting President ZTBL, Secretary Agriculture Punjab and Chairman PAC along with Mr. Jahangir Khan Tareen.

Press Release - FATF Plenary Meeting

The Plenary Meeting of Financial Action Task Force (FATF) took place at Orlando, USA, from June 16-21, 2019. The meeting reviewed the compliance of a number of countries, including Pakistan with the international standards on Anti-Money Laundering and Counter Financing of Terrorism (AML-CFT).

Pakistan was placed by FATF in its Compliance Document in view of an Action Plan agreed with Pakistan in June 2018 to strengthen its AML/CFT Regime. FATF reviewed progress made by Pakistan towards the implementation of the Action Plan. It acknowledged the steps taken by Pakistan to improve its AML/CFT regime and highlighted the need for further actions for implementing the Action Plan.

FATF will undertake the next review of Pakistan’s Progress in October 2019.

The Government of Pakistan reiterates its commitment to take all necessary measures to ensure completion of the Action Plan in a timely manner.

FPCCI & APTMA delegations called on Adviser to PM on Finance

A delegation of Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), led by its President Engr. Daroo Khan Achakzai, and All Pakistan Textile Mills Association, held separate meetings with the Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, here today. Welcoming the delegations, the Adviser briefed the participants about the economic priorities of the government. He informed that the government had taken austerity measures by reducing its expenditure upto Rs.50 billion as well as making 10% decrease in the salary of the Prime Minister and his Cabinet members. Spelling out the priorities of the government, the Adviser stated that initiatives had been taken to curb external deficit and fiscal deficit by reducing the expenditure and enhancing the revenue of the country. He urged the business community to support the government in its endeavours to boost the economy.

The delegations apprised the adviser of their problems and proposed a range of suggestions. The Adviser assured them that their suggestions would be accommodated. The meeting approved the demand of business community to develop criteria in which a person is not repeatedly selected for audit without any definite information about tax evasion. In order to facilitate the business community, Chairman FBR assured that a new system of refund would be introduced to issue refund to the exporters at the time of export. The meeting agreed to streamline DTRE system for the importers so as to discourage misuse, if any. The meeting agreed that no action would be taken against the taxpayers on the basis of any wrong information with respect to CNIC. However, the condition of CNIC, for invoice, will be continued with an object to document the economy. Regarding the commercial imports, the meeting approved the proposal of the business community to do away with presumptive tax on commercial imports.

The members of FPCCI and APTMA thanked the Adviser for accommodating their proposals.

Finance Division has allowed the investors of Rs. 40,000 Prize Bonds (Bearer) to register their bonds

Finance Division, Government of Pakistan has allowed the investors of Rs. 40,000 Prize Bonds (Bearer) to register their bonds Up to 31st March, 2020.

Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) has decided that holders of bearer Prize Bonds of Rs. 40,000 denomination can opt for any of the following opportunities to convert their bonds:-
Conversion of Rs. 40, 0000 Bearer Bond to Premium Prize Bonds (Registered):

Rs. 40,000 Bearer Prize Bonds can be converted to Premium Prize Bonds (Registered) through 16 field offices of SBP Banking Services Corporation, and authorized branches of six commercial banks i.e. National Bank of Pakistan, United Bank Limited , MCB Bank Limited,  Allied Bank Limited, Habib Bank Limited and Bank Alfalah Limited.

Conversion of Rs. 40,000 Bearer Bond to Special Savings Certificates (SSC) / Defence Savings Certificates

Rs. 40,000 Bearer Prize Bonds holder can avail the opportunity to replace the bonds with SSC / DSC through the 16 field offices of SBP Banking Services Corporation, authorized commercial banks and National Savings Centers. Rate of return on DSC and SSC are very attractive. Currently, annual rate of return on DSC is 12.47% whereas annual (average) rate of return on SSC is 11.57%.

Cash Payment against encashment of Rs. 40,000 Bearer Bonds in bond holder’s bank account:

In case the bond holder desires to encash the bond, the encashment proceeds would be credited to the specified bank account of the holder. In this context, SBP as well as all the banks would extend their maximum support to make sure the transfer of payments to respective account of the holder.

Furthermore, it is reiterated the Rs. 40,000 Prize Bonds (Bearer) need to be registered Up to 31st March, 2020 and any of the aforementioned opportunities can be availed for the purpose. It is clarified that the investment of the bond holder is safe in any case.

ECC has further decided that no further prize bond draw of Rs. 40,000 shall be held. However, all the prize money claims on the already held draws shall be claimable within the period of six years from the date of respective draw, as per National Prize Bonds Rules, 1999.

Finance Division further informs that Rs. 40,000 Premium Prize Bond (Registered) has already been launched w.e.f.  March 10, 2017. Registered Prize Bonds offer not only attractive prizes through quarterly draws but also pay reasonable profit through biannual coupon payments. All the payments are made to investor’s bank account through an automated system. Further, Prizes on Rs. 40,000 Premium Prize Bonds (Registered) are more attractive compared to bearer bonds. The registered bonds are secure and not prone to forgery and theft. Finance Division has already discontinued the fresh issuance of Rs. 40,000 bearer bonds w.e.f. February 14, 2019.

Adviser to PM on Finance chaired a meeting of Cabinet Committee on Privatization (CCoP)

Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, chaired meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Privatization (CCoP), here today. While presenting the report of the task force on energy reform, the Ministry of Energy briefed the Committee about the challenges being faced by the DISCOs. Various measures recommended by the task force for improving the performance of energy sector with a focus on reduction of losses and enhancing the efficiency of DISCOs were discussed during the meeting. The Committee directed the Ministry of Energy to submit proposals aimed at accelerating closure of those GENCOs that have outlived their recommended life and are running into losses.

Privatization of Pakistan Steel Mills was also discussed. The Committee directed Ministry of Industries and Production and Privatization Commission to submit their proposals in the next CCoP. Issue of delisting of House Building Finance Corporation Ltd (HBFC) from the privatization list was also recommended to be presented in the next meeting.

Revised Petroleum Prices for June 2019

The government has decided to revise prices of petroleum products for the month of June 2019. The revised prices per liter are as follows:-

The new prices shall be applicable from 1st to 30th June 2019.

Ceremony for Issuance of Sales Tax Refund Bonds

In order to facilitate businesses, particularly exporters, and resolve the problem of long outstanding refunds, it was decided by the Government to issue sales tax refund bonds to the claimants. FBR made necessary arrangements for issuance of bonds through Central Depository Company (CDC). Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh transmitted the advice for issuance of bonds to CDC system in a simple ceremony held at the Ministry of Finance, here today.

The bonds amounting to Rs. 7 billion are being issued in the first tranche. This issuance shall benefit 90 claimants. The bonds have been issued to claimants who had opened their account with CDC. The Advisor informed that FBR is planning another issuance in the month of June, 2019. He advised the claimants to exercise their option for issuance of bonds and provide their CDC accounts to FBR so that they can be accommodated in the next issuance.

The ceremony was attended by Minister of State for Revenue, Mr.Muhammad Hammad Azhar, Secretary Finance, Naveed Kamran Baloch, Chairman, FBR, Mr. Shabbar Zaidi and senior officials of FBR.

Delegation of MCC International Incorporation Limited called on Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance

A Chinese delegation of MCC International Incorporation Limited, led by its Vice President, Mr. Wang Zhou, called on Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, here today. The Adviser briefed the delegation about the scope of investment opportunities in Pakistan. He informed that the government had taken a number of steps for improving the ease of business in the country. The delegation showed interest to invest in the steel industry of Pakistan. It offered support for revival, operationalisation and improving the capacity of Pakistan Steel Mills on public-private partnership basis.

Delegation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry held a meeting with Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance

The Presidents and representatives of Lahore, Faisalabad, Sialkot, Karachi and Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry held a meeting with Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, here today. The representatives of various Chambers briefed the Adviser about various problems and challenges being confronted by the economy of the country. They gave various suggestions aimed at improving the economy and industrial sector of Pakistan. The delegation proposed ways and means to enhance the export of the country. The delegation also give proposals for the Budget 2019-20.

In order to facilitate the business community and attract foreign investment, the Adviser informed that the government was focusing on improving the ease of doing business. He stated that the role of private sector was highly important in improving the economy of the country and urged the members of business community to play their role to increase the volume of exports.  He assured that the proposals of the Chambers would be considered and a business-friendly budget would be presented.

Apart from the representatives of the Chambers, the meeting was attended by Adviser to PM on Commerce, Textile, Industry and Production and Investment, Mr. Abdul Razak Dawood, Minister of State for Revenue, Mr.Muhammad Hammad Azhar, Secretary Finance, Naveed Kamran Baloch, Chairman, FBR, Mr. Shabbar Zaidi and Adviser, Ministry of Finance, Dr. Khaqan Najeeb.

Adviser to PM on Finance chaired a meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC)

Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, chaired a meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet, here today. In order to stabilize the stock market of the country, the ECC approved the proposal of Finance Division authorizing Government of Pakistan to issue sovereign guarantee amounting to Rs.20 billion for investment in National Investment Trust (NIT)-State Enterprise Fund.

Secretary, Ministry of National Food Security and Research updated the Committee about the wheat situation in the country. He informed that the country was in comfortable position with having 7.257 million tons of wheat available in the stock.  Ministry of Maritime Affairs suggested various proposals on the revival and development of shipping industry in Pakistan. The Committee noted the proposals and advised Ministries of Petroleum and Maritime Affairs to jointly come up with a comprehensive proposal, in next ECC meeting, for introducing a dynamic shipping policy focusing on expansion and development of local shipping industry. The ECC acceded to the proposal of Ministry of States & Frontier Regions to grant Rs.781,591,000/- for arranging 20,000 Metric  Tons of wheat for Temporarily Displaced Persons of erstwhile FATA.

The ECC also approved Supplementary and Technical Supplementary Grants for various Ministries/Divisions.

Delegation of Foreign Exchange Dealers called on Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance

A delegation of Foreign Exchange Dealers, led by the President of Forex Association of Pakistan, Malik Bostan, called on Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, here today. The delegation suggested various measures aiming at improving foreign exchange of the country.

The representatives of the Association mentioned that smuggling of dollar to Afghanistan and Iran is a serious issue and the government agencies should take strict action against such elements who are involved in foreign currency smuggling. The delegation informed that people, who are travelling abroad, are carrying six million dollar per day. In order to reduce the outflow of dollar, the delegation proposed that the foreign currency limit for people, who are travelling abroad, should be revised. The delegation expressed concern over under invoicing by some importers and suggested that the custom authorities should take over the goods, by auctioning them, of the importers who are involved in under invoicing causing losses to national exchequer. The delegation also offered its support to improve foreign exchange of the country.

The Adviser assured the delegation that their proposals would be considered positively. The meeting was attended by Secretary Finance, Naveed Kamran Baloch, Governor State Bank of Pakistan, Dr. Reza Baqir, senior officials of Ministry of Finance and representatives of foreign exchange dealers.

Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance chaired a meeting to review the social and economic needs of the merged districts of erstwhile FATA

Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh chaired a meeting to review the social and economic needs of the merged districts of erstwhile Federally Administrated Tribal Areas (FATA), here today. While giving presentation, Finance Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Taimur Saleem Khan Jhagra, briefed the meeting about the financial requirements of the merged district of the province. He highlighted that the FATA Development Funds would be utilized for the development of the social sector particularly, health and education of the former tribal agencies, besides improving road and electricity infrastructure in the area.

The Adviser informed the meeting that the federal government would extend all possible assistance to erstwhile FATA to fulfill its needs and support the province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in its endeavors to work for the social and economic development of the merged districts of FATA. He assured the meeting that Ministry of Finance would timely process releasing of funds for the merged districts.  The meeting was informed that the Federal Government had disbursed sufficient funds on the rehabilitation of temporarily displaced persons (TDPs) of the former tribal agencies.

The meeting was attended by Adviser on Establishment, Mr. Mohammad Shehzad Arbab, Finance Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Taimur Saleem Khan Jhagra, Secretary Finance, Naveed Kamran Baloch and other senior officials of Finance Ministry.

Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance chaired a meeting to review Budget proposals

Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, chaired a meeting to review Budget proposals, here today. Chairman FBR, Shabbar Zaidi gave a presentation about the budget proposals for the 2019-2020. He proposed various steps to expand the tax base as well as increase revenue of the country. The Adviser directed FBR to make tax collection process further easier and initiate measures to broadening the tax base.

The meeting was also attended by the Adviser to PM on Commerce, Textile, Industry and Production and Investment, Mr. Abdul Razak Dawood, Minister of State for Revenue, Mr.Muhammad Hammad Azhar and other senior officials of Finance Ministry and FBR.

U.S. Ambassador called on Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance

U.S. Ambassador Paul W. Jones, Chargé d’Affaires a.i. called on Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, here today. The meeting discussed bilateral ties and underlined the need to further expand the scope of cooperation for the mutual benefits of the two countries.

The Adviser briefed the envoy about the steps being taken by the government for macroeconomic stabilization and putting the economy on a sound footing. He also apprised the Ambassador about the measures being taken by the government with reference to its international commitment on FATF. The meeting emphasized to restructure bilateral ties and focus more on promoting private sector and investment relationship. The Adviser mentioned that Pakistan had a long history of relationship with the United States of America and both sides were required to further promote linkages between the people of the two countries. He said that Pakistan offered friendly environment for investment and US businessmen should benefit of investment opportunities in Pakistan.

The Ambassador congratulated the Adviser on assumption of charge. He reiterated that economic and commercial relations between the two countries needed to be further strengthened.

Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance chaired a meeting to review the budget framework for the year 2019-20

Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh chaired a meeting to review the budget framework for the year 2019-20. He gave direction to concerned Wings of Finance Ministry to timely complete the budget process which will be presented in the National Assembly on June 11, 2019.

British High Commissioner to Pakistan called on the Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance

The British High Commissioner to Pakistan, Thomas Drew, called on the Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh and discussed matters of bilateral interest, here today. Both sides underscored the need for enhanced cooperation in the areas of trade and economy. The Adviser informed that Pakistan had long historic ties with United Kingdom and relations between the two countries needed to be further expended for the mutual benefits of the two sides. He briefed the envoy about the vision of the Prime Minister of Pakistan, saying his policies will lead to the social and economic development of the country.

The High Commissioner felicitated the Adviser on the assumption of charge as Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance. He said that both countries enjoyed excellent relations and they needed to further promote their economic relations. He informed that the British Airways would be coming to Pakistan in June this year.

Later, the Asian Development Bank (ADB)’s Country Director for Pakistan, Ms. Xiaohong Yang, also called on the Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs. They discussed new financing for various programmes and development projects.

Adviser to PM on Finance chaired a meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC)

Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, chaired a meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet to deliberate upon various proposals and recommendations submitted the Divisions. The ECC approved a proposal of Power Division to allow additional supply of 150 MW of power through National Grid to K-Electric so as to address power shortage in Karachi. In order to provide additional power supply to the seven tribal agencies of ex-FATA, the Committee approved additional subsidy amounting to Rs.1.8 billion to Tribal Electric Supply Company (TESCO) for the month of Ramazan. The Power Division informed that the government had been paying the electricity bills of the domestic consumers of former tribal agencies through subsidy of Rs.1.3 billion per month.

The ECC also acceded to the proposal of Earthquake Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Authority by granting tax exemption to the projects being constructed under Saudi Fund for Development Grant. Secretary Ministry of National Food Security and Research gave a presentation to the Committee updating it about the availability of wheat stock in the country. He informed that the wheat procurement process was being conducted smoothly by the provincial government (Punjab) and PASSCO. The Committee approved the proposed procurement target of wheat crop for the year 2018-19 to the tune of 5.15 million tons with financial limit of Rs.158.5 billion. On the proposal of Ministry of Maritime Affairs, the ECC waived off demurrage (KPT storage charges) on the consignments of rice to be distributed among the needy people by a non-profit welfare organizations working for the poor and the needy people of the country.

The Committee also approved Technical Supplementary and Supplementary Grants for different Ministries/Divisions.

UAE Ambassador called on the Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance

The Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates, Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Salem Al-Zaabi, called on the Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, here today. Both sides discussed bilateral ties and emphasized the need to further promote economic and trade relations between the two countries. The Adviser informed that Pakistan highly valued its ties with UAE which had always extended support to Pakistan in difficult times. He said both countries needed to realize the full potential of their ties by encouraging the private sector to come and invest in Pakistan. He briefed the Ambassador about the vision of Prime Minister of Pakistan, adding the Prime Minister sincerely wanted to do something for the development of the country and, in this regard, he has developed good partnership with international community. He also thanked the UAE government for providing financial support to Pakistan under the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development.

Adviser to PM on Finance reviewed progress on FATF Action Plan

A meeting to review progress on FATF Action Plan was held under the chairmanship of Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, here today. The Secretary Finance updated all the key stakeholders on the critical nature of the meeting, serious challenges at hand and top priority that is being assigned by the Government.

The Chair was updated by all the key stakeholders regarding progress made by Pakistan on FATF Action Plan. The stakeholders demonstrated coordination and commitment to achieve this national objective. The Chair advised all stakeholders to work round the clock and give highest priority, efforts as well as extra time for achieving and surpassing to FATF action plan.

The meeting was attended by Secretary Finance, Secretary Interior, Chairman FBR, Chairman SECP, Deputy Governor SBP, Director General FMU, Director General CT Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Director General CT NACTA and representatives of Law enforcement and intelligence agencies.

Adviser to PM on Finance, Provincial Ministers hold talks with IMF mission

Advisor to the Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue & Economic Affairs, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, alongwith the Chief Minister Sindh and Provincial Finance Ministers of Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, held a joint meeting with the IMF Mission led by Mr. Ernesto Ramirez Rigo, here today.  The participants exchanged views on the existing fiscal situation of the country in the context of the Fund program which is currently under discussions.

The Mission was apprised that the Federal and Provincial Governments were constantly engaged on fiscal matters and the National Finance Commission (NFC) and the Fiscal Coordination Committee (FCC) forums were being used for ensuring maximum cooperation and coordination among the Federal and Provincial fiscal authorities. The Provincial Finance Ministers apprised the Mission of various initiatives taken in their respective provinces for resource mobilization at the sub national level to cater for the increasing developmental and social spending needs. They expressed that the revenues from taxation had witnessed marked improvement recently. The provinces also emphasized that they were managing their expenditures prudently for better fiscal outcomes. They assured the Mission that the Provincial governments would support and complement the efforts of the Federal government to adhere to the fiscal framework being discussed with the Fund.  

The IMF Mission was encouraged by the shared thinking at the Federal and Provincial levels. The Mission leader appreciated the updates provided by the provincial governments. He highlighted the importance of a harmonized system of taxation that would contribute towards increasing economic activities and business growth in the country. 

Adviser to PM on Finance chaired a meeting of Fiscal Coordination Committee

Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, chaired the meeting of Fiscal Coordination Committee (FCC), here today.

The meeting considered the recommendations of the FCC Sub-Committee on Public Finance Management Reforms on incentive grant system to provinces under Performance for Results Program. The Committee approved the incentive grant for provinces as proposed by the Sub-Committee with the direction that further refinement, if required, may be made in the procedures/process in consultation with the provinces. Federal Government will provide grants to provinces, through the incentive grant system, subject to fulfillment of certain baselines in the public finance management and social sector developments, especially in Health and Education sectors.

The meeting also reviewed the bi-annual implementation of the NFC Award for the period January-June, 2018 and approved the report for presentation to the Parliament and Provincial Assemblies.

Chief Minister of Sindh, Finance Ministers of Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, senior officials of the Ministry of Finance and Finance Departments of the provinces and the AJ&K attended the meeting.

The Fiscal Coordination Committee, it may be mentioned, is a forum constituted by the Council of Common Interests for the purpose of ensuring cooperation and coordination among the federating units on fiscal matters.

Adviser to PM on Finance chaired a meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC)

Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh chaired a meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC) to consider various proposals submitted by Ministries/Division. The Committee partially approved adjustments in PoL products as proposed by Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA). However, it was decided to reduce the GST on petrol by 5% to provide relief to the consumers. The reduction will entail a revenue loss of around Rs.5 billion to the government.
 
Industries & Production Division gave presentation to Committee on the findings and recommendations of the Expert Group constituted to work out an operationalisation plan for the revival of Pakistan Steel Mills. The ECC approved the recommendations of the Ministry and directed that the due process be completed for listing of PSM for privatization with a view to implement the revival plan based on private sector inputs and collaboration.

The ECC approved the proposal of Petroleum Division to allocate gas from Thal East, Bhambhra and Thal West Fields to M/s SSGCL.

Industries Division updated the ECC on Ramazan Relief Package and informed that Utility Stores across the country were being stocked to cater for the Ramazan shopping.

The Committee also approved Supplementary Grants and Technical Supplementary Grants for different Ministries/Divisions. It also approved payment of salaries to Khassadars of South Waziristan.

Islamic Development Bank delegation called on Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance

An Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) delegation, led by President Dr. Bandar M. H. Hajjar, called on Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, here today. The meeting was preceded by signing of grant agreements for “Operationalisation of EXIM Bank of Pakistan (EXIMBP)” and “Support Enhancing Agricultural Production using Efficient Irrigation System in Baluchistan, Pakistan” Projects. During last week an oil credit facility of US $ 551 Million has already been signed.

The Advisor informed the President IsDB of the concrete policy measures introduced by the government for improving the economic and fiscal situation in the country in general and the current account situation in particular. He emphasized that the Government has finalized its strategy to deliver on Medium Term Economic Frameworks Targets to be agreed with IMF team already in Pakistan for technical discussions for a three year program.

He appreciated the role played by the Islamic Development Bank as a leader in Islamic Finance and promoting global development that is supported by Sharia complaint long term sustainable and ethical financing structures.  The Advisor lauded the financing facility by International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation for import of oil and LNG signed recently and discussed that the teams at EAD and IsDB should press on to realize the full disbursement of the facility.

The President IsDB resolved to further strengthen cooperation with Pakistan in the areas of project financing and assured of early financing of Jamshoro Coal Fired Power Plant. He also said that IsDB would extend all possible cooperation for economic development of Pakistan. The high level delegation of IsDB is on a three day visit to Pakistan to explore possible financing in health, energy, water and infrastructure. During the visit, the delegation would call on the Prime Minister and the President of Islamic Republic of Pakistan and hold meeting with relevant line Ministries and Departments.

APM on Finance chaired the 2nd meeting of Steering Committee to review the implementation of the trade related NSW in Pakistan

Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, chaired the 2nd  meeting of Steering Committee on National Single Window (NSW) to review the implementation of the trade related  NSW in Pakistan, here today. Member Custom (Operations) gave a presentation to the Committee highlighting the concepts and benefits of NSW system. He informed that the implementation of NSW would help promote cross border trade as well as improving the ease of doing business in the country. He apprised that the establishment of NSW system was a basic requirement, under WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, as Pakistan is signatory to the said Agreement. He said that FBR was actively working on early implementation of NSW system which would play instrumental role in promoting cross border trade.

The Adviser directed FBR to simplify the existing laws and regulations to help promoting trade with neighbouring countries. He asked FBR to carry out further consultation on the business plan for the establishment of NSW, with a view to have a broad based consensus, before its formal approval.

US Principal Dy. Assistant Secretary of State called on APM on Finance

A US delegation, led by US Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, Ambassador Alice Wells, called on Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, here today. Matters pertaining to promotion of economic and business relations between the two countries were discussed. The meeting underlined the need to deepen the engagements between the two countries in the area of trade, economy and energy.

The Adviser informed the delegation that Pakistan valued its ties with US and both countries needed to work to create an environment to move forward for the mutual benefits of the two sides. He referred to the sacrifices rendered by the people and Armed Forces of Pakistan while fighting the war on terror and said that both countries had shared concern about militancy and extremism. He said that Pakistan had borne the brunt of the war on terror by sacrificing thousands of security forces and civilians. Pakistan’s role in promotion of peace and stability also came under discussion during the meeting. The Ambassador Wells lauded Pakistan’s efforts for promoting peace and stability in Afghanistan. She said that both countries needed to work together for the expansion of economic relations. Ambassador Wells appreciated the vision of Prime Minister of Pakistan for the economic stability to the country.  She said that the US would support policies aimed at bringing economic stability in Pakistan.

Prime Minister lmran Khan had a meeting with Ms. Christine Lagarde, Managing Director of IMF

Prime Minister lmran Khan had a meeting with Ms. Christine Lagarde, Managing Director of International Monetary fund (IMF) on the sidelines of the belt and Road Forum, says a press release received here today from Beijing, China. The Prime Minister was assisted by Foreign Minister, Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Adviser on Finance, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh and Adviser on Commerce, Mr. Abdul Razzaq Dawood.

The meeting reviewed the relationship between Pakistan and the Fund. The Prime Minister identified the areas of reform and initiatives being undertaken by the government to stabilize the economy, control inflation and achieve fiscal balance.

The two leaders agreed on the importance of the Fund programme and to work towards an agreement for which an IMF delegation is coming to Islamabad.

The two sides agreed on the need for a social safety net for the vulnerable groups of the society.

Prime Minister Imran Khan held a meeting with Kristalina Georgieva, CEO of the World Bank

The Prime Minister met Ms. Kristalina Georgieva, CEO of the World Bank on the sidelines of the second Belt and Road Forum (BRF), says a press release received here today from Beijing, China. He was accompanied by the Foreign Minister and Adviser on Finance and Adviser on Commerce.

The Prime Minister informed CEO, World Bank of the recent steps taken by the government for improving the economic and fiscal situation in the country. He appreciated the role played by the World Bank in regional connectivity, poverty alleviation, financial management, provisional projects, DASU and other infrastructure projects and ease of doing business.

The Prime Minister also informed the CEO about the socio-economic uplift measures taken up by the government and creation of “Ehsaas” social welfare programme.

The CEO of the World Bank pledged to further strengthen cooperation with Pakistan in the areas of disbursements programme lending and guarantees provision for raising external funds.

Adviser to PM on Finance chaired a meeting to review the Asset Declaration Scheme

The Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, chaired a meeting here today, to review the Asset Declaration Scheme. The meeting deliberated upon various aspects of the scheme and emphasized the need to make it more simple and implementable. The participants gave their inputs and suggested that since the focus of proposed scheme is on documentation of economy, it should be designed to clearly reflect that objective.

The Adviser directed FBR to modify and refine the scheme by making it more attractive and persuasive so as maximum people, who are currently outside the formal economy, are able to become a part of it. He gave directions to FBR to devise a successful communication strategy enabling the people to easily comprehend the contours of the scheme.

It may be recalled that the Federal Cabinet had directed FBR to carry out consultations with experts of various sectors to make the scheme more inclusive and to reduce its complications.

The meeting was also attended by Adviser to Prime Minister on Commerce, Textile, Industry & Production and Investment, Abdul Razak Dawood, Adviser on Institutional Reforms and Austerity, Dr. Ishrat Hussain, Minister of State for Revenue, Muhammad Hammad Azhar, Chairman, FBR and experts of business, accounting and banking sectors.

Chinese Ambassador called on Adviser to PM on Finance

Mr. Yao Jing, Ambassador of People’s Republic of China, called on Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs, here today. Both sides discussed matters of bilateral interest and underscored the need for enhanced collaboration between the two countries in the areas of mutual benefit.

The Adviser informed the Ambassador that Pakistan highly values its ties with China, which is a sincere friend and has always supported Pakistan in difficult times. He said that environment in Pakistan for foreign investment was conducive and Chinese businessmen should benefit from it to make investment in various sectors. He conveyed that the government would facilitate Chinese investors by providing them all possible support to invest in Pakistan. Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh deeply appreciated China’s role in the social and economic development of Pakistan.

Appreciating the steps taken by government of Pakistan for revival of economy, the Ambassador said that the Chinese investors wanted to invest in Pakistan and their confidence over the policies and leadership of Pakistan is getting increased. He reiterated his government’s resolve to continue its support for early execution of various projects under CPEC. The Ambassador also congratulated Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh on assuming the portfolio of Adviser.

The meeting discussed the forthcoming visit of the Prime Minister of Pakistan to China and expressed the hope that the visit would further strengthen the existing multifaceted relations between the two neighbours.

World Bank Country Director called on Advisor to PM on Finance

The World Bank Country Director Mr. Patchamuthu Illangovan called on the Advisor to PM on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh here today. They discussed the ongoing projects being supported by the World Bank.

The Advisor emphasized the need to expedite the finalization of the new financing in the pipeline before the end of FY 2019. He assured the Country Director that all approvals will be expedited to ensure timely disbursement. It was also agreed that Chief Executive Officer, World Bank, Kristalina Georgieva, would meet the Prime Minister of Pakistan in China during his visit later this month there.

Advisor to PM on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs reviewed the proposed Assets Declaration Scheme - 2019

Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, Adviser to PM on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs reviewed the proposed Assets Declaration Scheme – 2019 in detail with FBR officials today. Discussion focused on the scope and the features of the scheme. The Adviser instructed FBR to fine tune the scheme to make it simple to understand and easy to implement. He also emphasized that the objective of the scheme should be to make the economy  more tax compliant and documented.

Advisor to PM on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs held a phone discussion with Ernesto Ramirez-Rigo, IMF Mission Chief to Pakistan

Dr Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, Advisor to Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs held a phone discussion with Ernesto Ramirez-Rigo, IMF Mission Chief to Pakistan, after talking with Jihad Azour, IMF Director, earlier today. They discussed the progress of negotiations for an IMF-supported program for Pakistan. Both sides expressed their commitment for moving the discussions forward. It was agreed that an IMF mission will visit Pakistan by the end of April 2019.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of Cabinet Committee on Energy (CCOE)

A meeting of Cabinet Committee on Energy (CCOE) was held here today with Finance Minister, Asad Umar, in the chair. The Committee decided that there would be no load shedding during Sehri and Iftar in Ramazan and directed the Power Division to ensure uninterrupted supply of power in this regard. CCOE expressed concern over complaints of longer duration of load shedding in rural areas and asked the Power Division to adopt uniformed policy for load management in urban and rural areas and no discrimination should be made in this regard.

The Power Division presented its Internal Audit Report on quarterly Indexation by NEPRA. The report found that NEPRA had used high exchange rates during determination of quarterly indexation.

The committee asked the Power Division to ascertain from the Regulator whether it has judicially applied its mind while determining the exchange rates. The Regulator should also be asked to indicate the remedial measures for rectifying the mistake, for the future and to determine how the losses incurred, if any, could be made good.

Power Division briefed the Committee about its successful recovery campaign being carried out against the defaulters. It informed that the recovery campaign had successfully achieved its objectives by collecting Rs.318,264 million from November 2018 to February 2019 and arresting 4,225 defaulters. The Finance Minister appreciated the performance of Power Division in this regard.  CCOE was also updated on Renewable Energy Policy, 2019 and  was informed that the draft policy had been circulated among relevant quarters and would be submitted to the Cabinet in the first half of May 2019.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of Economic Coordination Committee (ECC)

The meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet was held here today with Finance Minister, Asad Umar, in the chair. The Committee reviewed proposals of various Ministries/Divisions. The Committee also considered and approved various demands of Division Ministries for Supplementary and Technical Supplementary grants.

Industries and Production Division gave a presentation to update the Committee about status of Ramzan Package.  The Committee directed Utility Stores Corporation (USC) to expedite the procurement of essential consumer items so as to provide timely relief to the people in Holy Month of Ramazan. ECC constituted a four-member Committee to be headed by Railways Minister, Sheikh Rashid Ahmed, to oversee the implementation of Ramazan Package.

The Ministry of Petroleum briefed the ECC on the implementation of the Committee’s decision regarding utilization of services of Pakistan Railways for transportation of petroleum products across the country. The Ministry of Railways informed the Committee that it had the capacity to carry higher volumes and would work with the Ministry of Petroleum to explore further possibilities.

The ECC approved, in principle, the proposal of Ministry of Information & Broadcasting for media campaign aiming to disseminate information relating to initiatives on Poverty Alleviation, Sehat Insaaf Scheme, PM’s Naya Pakistan Housing Scheme etc.

The Committee also directed the Ministry of Finance and National Bank of Pakistan to extend maximum facilitation to the USC in this regard. The Finance Minister said that the budgetary needs of many organizations had not been properly assessed at the time of preparation of budget estimate last year which was leading to a large number of demands for Supplementary Grants.  He emphasized the need for proper budgeting of the financial needs of various departments, which would obviate the need for Supplementary Grants during the currency of the fiscal year.  He stated that the government is determined to phase out the supplementary grants in the future budgets.

Chinese Ambassador called on Finance Minister

The Ambassador of People’s Republic of China, Mr. Yao Jing, called on Finance Minister, Asad Umar, here today. Both sides exchanged views on matters of bilateral importance and emphasized the need for further enhancing and expanding bilateral cooperation.

Welcoming the Ambassador, the Minister said that China was a reliable friend and her support was essential for the social and economic development of Pakistan. He briefed the envoy about the measures taken by the government for creating enabling environment for foreign investment. He said that the Chinese businessmen and investors would also benefit from the current environment by making investment in various sectors, particularly agriculture, housing, health, education and energy.

Finance Minister's meetings at Washington DC

Pakistan’s delegation led by Mr Asad Umar, Finance Minister had a second day of meetings during the IMF/WB spring meetings on Thursday at Washington, says a press release received here today from Embassy of Pakistan, Washington DC. The delegation also held a number of bilateral meetings on the sidelines.

The Finance Minister and the delegation met with the President of the Asian Development Bank Mr. Takehiko Nakao and apprised him of the current macroeconomic situation in the country. The Finance Minister and Mr. Nakao discussed continuation of Pakistan’s ongoing engagement with the Asian Development Bank. Mr. Nakao appreciated the reform process in the country and assured continued support of the Asian Development Bank.

Earlier, the Finance Minister reviewed the World Bank’s Pakistan portfolio in a meeting with the World Bank team led by Mr. Hartwig Schafer, Vice President for South Asia. They discussed the pipeline of projects as well as the sectors where World Bank could further scale up its interventions in Pakistan.
The Finance Minister also held a meeting with a team of World Bank’s Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) led by its Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Vijay Iyer, and shared views about the privatization policy of the government and the expansion of public private partnership framework in the country. MIGA team apprised the Finance Minister of its current engagements in Pakistan. They informed that MIGA is now looking to expand its portfolio in the country.

On the sidelines, the Finance Minister also met with the US Treasury. He apprised them about the macroeconomic situation in the country, the reform efforts as well as measures being taken to strengthen the anti-money laundering legal and enforcement framework.

Finance Minister participated in the IMF/WB spring meetings 2019

Pakistan’s delegation led by Mr. Asad Umar, Finance Minister participated in the IMF/WB spring meetings 2019 and attended a number of bilateral meetings on the sidelines, says a press release received here today from Washington DC. The Finance Minister met with the new World Bank President Mr. David Malpass and apprised him of the macroeconomic situation in the country and discussed continuation of Pakistan’s ongoing engagement with the Bank. Mr. Malpass appreciated the reform process in the country and assured continued World Bank support. The Finance Minister also met with the First Deputy Managing Director IMF Mr. David Lipton and talked about the ongoing negotiations with IMF. The Finance Minister had a business roundtable with members of the US Pakistan Business Council. The companies present included Pepsi Co, Coca Cola, Procter & Gamble, Uber and Facebook. The companies expressed their strong interest in Pakistan’s market and shared their future plans as well as issues where they needed support from the government. The Finance Minister mentioned that the government was completely focused on improving the ease of doing business in Pakistan. He further said that the Prime Minister Imran Khan was personally monitoring the reform process in this regard.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of National Price Monitoring Committee

National Price Monitoring Committee (NPMC) met here today to take stock of supply and prices of food and pharmaceutical items. The meeting was chaired by Finance Minister Mr. Asad Umar and attended by relevant federal ministries and provincial departments. The meeting reviewed prices of perishable and non-perishable food items, particularly 28 essential kitchen items. The committee was informed that volatility in the prices of perishable items specifically tomatoes, onions, grams and pulses was primarily due to seasonal variations which has now subsided. The Sensitive Price Indicator (SPI), which monitors mostly kitchen items for last two consecutive weeks in March 2019, is showing a sharp declining trend which suggests that the prices of these items in the market are on a downward trajectory.

The meeting decided that a strong forecasting mechanism will be put in place to ensure availability of essential food items for the coming 3 – 6 months in consultation with the provincial governments. A monthly meeting of NPMC will be held regularly to review supply and prices of all commodities and timely measures will be put in place to avoid any shortage in the country. Finance Minister directed that market committees may be made more proactive to play a vigilant role in effectively monitoring prices and check any hoarding across the country. It was also agreed to reduce price disparity among the provinces through an integrated market mechanism.

NPMC decided that laws would be reviewed to ensure that price control mechanism proactively focuses on cartelization, hoarding and undue profiteering. The meeting reviewed the availability of commodities with particular reference to Ramzan. The Utility Store Corporation assured NPMC that Government’s Ramzan Package will be implemented to ensure sufficient availability of commodities at affordable prices. The meeting agreed that Susta bazaars, Itwar bazaars and fair price shops will be increased throughout the country to ensure sufficient availability of commodities for common man at affordable prices.

Ministry of Finance has proposed to amend the Foreign Exchange Regulations Act (FERA) 1947

In order to prevent illegal foreign exchange transactions, Ministry of Finance has proposed to amend the Foreign Exchange Regulations Act (FERA) 1947 by introducing a bill “FER (Amendment) Act 2019”, in the National Assembly to empower the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) to regulate foreign exchange regime in the country more effectively. The proposed amendment has been approved by the Federal Cabinet and transmitted to Parliament for enactment. The amendments would substantially strengthen the SBP’s powers to issue necessary regulations/instructions relating to inland movement of foreign currency and enable it to monitor such movement. The measure is a part of government of Pakistan’s efforts to enhance the transparency of financial transactions.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of Economic Coordination Committee (ECC)

Finance Minister Asad Umar chaired meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC) here today. The Industries & Production Division briefed the Committee about the availability of urea in the country. In order to facilitate the farmers and meet their urea’s demand, the Committee approved immediate import of 100,000 tons of urea.  Besides, it decided to allow additional import of Urea in the event of any demand-supply gap. The ECC directed the Ministry of Industries and Production to review the price mechanism of fertilizer industry for ensuring provision of urea to farmers at cheaper rates. The Committee directed the relevant institution to check market manipulation activities in the fertilizer sector and use all the powers available under the law to penalize such behavior.

The Committee was apprised by the Industries Division about the status of NAB cases against seven persons involved in corruption in Pakistan Steel Mills. Interior Division informed the meeting that the name of seven persons had been recommended for placement on Exit Control List (ECL).

Giving presentation to the Committee, Utility Stores Corporation informed about preparations for the Ramazan Package. ECC directed the Industries Division to ensure that in Ramazan package is implemented effectively and the intended relief is passed on to consumers.

Statistics Division gave a presentation to the Committee about inflation and price situation of various items in the country. It was decided to constitute a sub-Committee, under the chairmanship of Minister for National Food Security & Research, to review the supply and demand situation of essential food items to ensure stable prices in the country.

The Committee accorded approval to a proposal of Ministry of Petroleum regarding Fuel Supply Agreement between Pakistan State Oil (PSO) and State Oil Company of the Republic of Azerbaijan (SOCAR).

Finance Minister received the visiting Qatari delegation

Finance Minister, Asad Umar, received the visiting Qatari delegation led by Head of Regional Portfolios, Department of Qatar Investment Authority, Sheikh Faisal Bin Thani Al-Thani for a meeting here today. The Minister briefed the delegation about the steps taken by the present government for ease of doing business and facilitating the foreign investors with various incentives including rationalization of tax regime. He said more such steps were envisaged in the upcoming budget 2019-20.

The Qatari delegation has evinced keen interest for investment in different sectors of Pakistan with the focus on investment opportunities in power, infrastructure, tourism and agriculture.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of 9th National Finance Commission (NFC)

The 5th meeting of the 9th National Finance Commission (NFC) was held today at Lahore with Federal Finance Minister, Asad Umar, in the chair.

The six sub-groups, formulated during the first meeting in February, gave presentation on various aspects of resources distribution as per the terms of reference assigned to the groups. The main focus of all sub-groups’ deliberations was transparency, harmonization and sharing of data. The members of the Commission appreciated the work done by the six sub-groups in their first meetings. It was agreed that the sub-groups would continue their deliberations and present their reports in the subsequent meetings. The Chairman suggested that deliberations should also include incentives for poverty alleviation and social sector spending.

The representative of Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa proposed a framework for NFC deliberations aiming at equalizing fiscal resources across federating units, equal access to public services for all citizens of Pakistan and expenditure efficiency at all levels of the federation. All members agreed on the framework and lauded the efforts of the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in this regard.

The Chairman emphasized the importance of a well deliberated and consensus based National Finance Commission Award and said that all federating units shared a huge responsibility in that regard. The meeting agreed to make efforts to finalize the NFC Award by December 31, 2019. It was also agreed to hold the next meeting, before end of April, 2019, which would focus on FATA and the taxation aspects of ease of doing business.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC)

A meeting of the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) was held, under the chairmanship of Finance Minister Asad Umar and approved projects in communications and power sectors, here today. The Planning Division gave a presentation about the dualization of Western Alignment of CPEC - Kuchlak-Zhob section N-50 (305-KMs). The Committee was briefed about the importance of the western corridor which would significantly benefit the people of Zhob, Kuchlak, Muslim Bagh, Pashin as well as Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. It approved land acquisition cost of the project that would be met from the savings of PSDP, and no new allocation would be required in this regard.

In order to quickly and timely respond to accidents and mishaps on the Corridor, the Committee approved a proposal of Ministry of Communications to setup an Intelligent Transportation System (ITS). The ECNEC also approved a proposal to build service areas along the western corridor on Built up Property basis.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of Economic Coordination Committee (ECC)

Finance Minister Asad Umar chaired meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC) here today. On a summary of the Petroleum Division, the ECC approved gas supply to Tall and adjacent areas of district Hangu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The ECC approved a proposal of Federal Board of Revenue to waive the accumulated penal surcharges of Rs.700 million off against overstayed consignments at ports. The decision will enable importers to clear their overstayed cargoes and would also help reducing congestion at ports and bonded warehouses. The Commerce Division gave a presentation about the significance of establishment of an Independent Insurance Regulator. The ECC directed the Commerce Division to expedite the findings of the Commission, already formed on the subject, for making informed decision. On a proposal of Petroleum Division regarding arrangements of additional 200 MMCFD of LNG from Qatar, the Committee directed Petroleum Division to carry out a comprehensive demand/supply analysis of LNG in the country, in consultation with stakeholders, including Law and Justice Division, and submit a summary to the Cabinet in this regard.

Maritime Affairs Division briefed ECC about the progress on new LNG Terminal. The Finance Minister directed Maritime Division to expedite the process for establishment of new LNG terminal in view of the increasing demand for gas in the country. On the issue of the submission of Pakistan Steels’ revival business plan, ECC directed the Ministry of Industries to submit its proposals within the next fortnight. The Committee also accorded approval to the proposal of National Counter Terrorism Authority by granting it Technical Supplementary Grant of Rs.133.156 million.

Finance Minister met the mission chief of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Ernesto Ramirez Rigo

Finance Minister of Pakistan Asad Umar, met the IMF Mission Chief Ernesto Ramirez Rigo in Islamabad, on Tuesday. The Minister and the Mission Chief discussed all issues including fiscal, monetary, structural reforms and energy sector. The Minister briefed Mr. Ramirez Rigo about the steps taken by the government for improving the economy of the country. The Minister informed that the structural reforms and other economic initiatives introduced by the government were yielding desired results. The Minister said that the government would continue to address the macroeconomic imbalances and would take necessary corrective measures in this regard.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of Steering Committee of Economic Pillar of Saudi-Pakistani Supreme Coordination Council (SPSCC)

Meeting of the Steering Committee of Economic Pillar of Saudi-Pakistani Supreme Coordination Council (SPSCC), chaired by Finance Minister, Asad Umar, was held here today to review and discuss the progress on implementation of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), signed during the visit of Saudi Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman to Pakistan on February 18-19, 2019, on oil, alternate energy and minerals and mines. The meeting took various decisions in order to implement the MoUs on fast track basis. The concerned Ministries were directed to appoint dedicated focal person for enhanced coordination among Ministries and Provincial Governments so that the agreed measures could be implemented in a more efficient and swift manner.

The meeting was attended by Adviser to PM on Commerce, Textile, Industry and Production and Investment, Ministers for Petroleum & Natural Resources, Communication, Inter Provincial Coordination, Maritime Affairs, Power, National Food Security and Research, Information Technology and Telecommunications and Secretaries of the concerned ministries.

The Secretaries of Petroleum & Power apprised the meeting of the progress made on the MoUs signed with the Saudi side during the high level visit.

The Chair directed the Board of Investment and Ministry of Petroleum to expedite consultation with the Government of Baluchistan for the development of mining sector in collaboration with foreign investors. The Ministry of Petroleum would provide all possible assistance to the provincial government in this regard.

Finance Minister chaired a meeting to review the financial requirements of the tribal districts

Minister for Finance Asad Umar chaired a meeting to  review the financial requirements of the tribal districts  (erstwhile Federally Administrated Tribal Areas).The Meeting was attended by Federal  Minister for Planning, Development and Reform, Makhdum Khusro Bakhtyar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s  Governor, Shah Farman; Chief Minister, Mahmood Khan, Finance Minister KP,  Taimur Saleem Jhagra, and Adviser to Prime Minister on Establishment, Mohammad Shehzad Arbab.

Finance Minister, Asad Umar assured the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for bringing the merged districts at par with the rest of the Province. He said that the Prime Minister accorded the highest priority to the uplift of these areas and the federal as well as provincial governments of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa were committed to provide 3% of their share for the uplift of merged districts, until the time appropriate allocations are allocated through the NFC process.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Finance Minister gave a detailed presentation to the meeting, highlighting the financial needs of the merged tribal districts. He briefed the meeting on the detailed plans for the socio-economic development of the merged districts and emphasized the importance of regular and timely financial allocation.

The Governor and the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa emphasized that the provincial government was fully geared to undertake the required developmental activities to completely transform the merged districts.

It was decided that the Federal & Provincial authorities would continue their coordinated efforts for preparation and processing of detailed development plan along with timeline for implementation of various activities.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of Economic Coordination Committee (ECC)

Finance Minister Asad Umar chaired the meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC) here today. The Committee was briefed by the Water Resource Division on the proposed arrangement for settling the electricity tariff and water usage charges issues with AJK. Secretary Water Resource Division stated that a detailed arrangement covering all aspects of the issue had been worked out in consultation with the government of AJK, under the new arrangement AJK would be given a dispensation similar to the Provinces. The Committee noted that the proposed arrangement, where AJK would set up its own DISCO and would receive Water Usage Charges at the enhanced rate of Rs.1.10/kwh was based on the principle of equality and endorsed the same.

The Committee approved Supplementary Grant amounting to Rs.1795 million, for Temporarily Dislocated Persons from North Waziristan in the wake of Operation Zarb-e-Azb. In order to meet the expenses of Capital Administration and Development Division (CADD), the Committee approved Technical Supplementary Grant of Rs.202.637 million for CADD and Rs.12.409 million for Pakistan Chairs Abroad. Similarly, it approved Supplementary Grant of Rs.156.327 million for Ministry of Health Services, Regulation and Coordination and Rs.41.671 million for Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development. It also approved the demand of Cabinet Division to release Technical Supplementary Grant of Rs.14,844,256/- million.

The Committee was briefed by Ministry of Science & Technology on the status of operationalisation of Pakistan Hilal Authority. The Committee directed that the Prime Minister’s Adviser on Institutional Reforms and Austerity, Dr. Ishrat Hussain, should review the matter of placement of the Authority under the most relevant Ministry. Ministry of National Food Security & Research briefed the Committee on the implementation status of decision taken by the Committee last month for improvement of cotton crop in the country. The Committee also accorded approval to the proposal of Ministry of National Food Security and Research to extend the export period of surplus Wheat from PASSCO’s stock. The Committee also approved the proposal of Ministry of Industries and Production to allocate 66 MMFCD Additional Mari Deep Gas to PPIB for power generation purposes.

High-Level ADB Delegation from Manila met with Finance Minister

Finance Minister Asad Umar received a high-level delegation of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) comprising of Mr. Shahid Mahmood, Executive Director, Mr. Werner E. Liepach, Director General (CWRD), Mr. Michael Barrow Director General (Private Sector Operations) and Ms. Xiaohong Yang, Country Director for a meeting here on Friday.

Finance Minister acknowledged the ADB’s support for development of Pakistan and discussed the priorities areas and new avenues for future interventions.  Finance Minister on the occasion said that the Government is keen to devise innovative financing model, develop capital markets and mobilize private sector investment in infrastructure & social sector. These initiatives will not only provide fiscal space to the government but will also be helpful to boost economic activities in the country. He also appreciated the proactive approach of Pakistan Resident Mission and suggested to further enhance the role and capacity of PRM.

Mr. Shahid Mahmood, Executive Director thanked the Finance Minister and reiterated ADB’s commitment to further strengthen and expand its partnership with Pakistan. Mr. Werner E. Liepach, Director General (CWRD) affirmed ADB’s readiness to scale up its lending to Pakistan including development policy credit and project financing. He said that ADB supports the Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) initiatives in Pakistan which play an important role in bridging the huge infrastructure investment gap. In this regard, ADB may provide transaction advisory services associated with the development and implementation of PPP projects, he added.

MD Iranian Foreign Investment Company called on Finance Minister

Pakistan and Iran have reiterated their desire to enhance bilateral trade which would greatly benefit the two neighboring countries. This was discussed at a meeting between the visiting Managing Director of (IFIC), Mr. Hassan Abghari, and Finance Minister Asad Umar, here today.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of Cabinet Committee on Energy (CCOE)

The meeting of Cabinet Committee on Energy (CCOE) was held, chaired by Finance Minister Asad Umar, here today.

The Committee considered various proposals to make recovery on fast track basis from defaulters of the power sectors. It stressed the need to continue campaign against the defaulters.

The Committee decided that Power Division and Ministry of Finance would jointly work out a notification based policy for the facilitation of consumers. Such policy will help curbing irregularities in the power sector.

The Committee reviewed Slabs of Gas Billing for Domestic Consumers. The Finance Minister directed the Ministry of Petroleum to review the inflated bills so as to reduce burden on consumers. He said that the Prime Minister Imran Khan has already ordered to refund the amount charged from natural gas consumers through inflated bills. He asked the Petroleum Division to adjust the inflated bills in future billing.

First meeting of the Board of Directors of Sarmaya-e-Pakistan Limited (SPL) was held

The first meeting of the Board of Directors of Sarmaya-e-Pakistan Limited (SPL) was held here today. The Board unanimously elected Mr. Ehsan Malik as its Chairman.

The Board constituted statutory committees as per requirement of Corporate Governance Rules, 2013.
 The Board considered the prime objective of SPL, initiation of a reform process of State Owned Enterprises (SOEs) to improve their efficiency, service delivery and financial viability. In this regard, the Board was of the opinion that all options for reform and reinvigorating the SOEs must be kept in mind.

Prior to the Board meeting, Finance Minister Asad Umar met the Board Members and congratulated them on their appointment on the SPL Board.

The Board deliberated upon the objectives of the company and agreed considered as their primary objective to initiate a reform process that will result in efficient and better service delivery of State Owned Enterprises (SOEs).  

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of Economic Coordination Committee (ECC)

A meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC), chaired by Finance Minister Asad Umar, was held here today. The Committee approved Rs.2 (Two) billion Ramazan Relief Package-2019 so as to provide relief to the low income groups in the Holy Month of Ramazan by providing them essential items at a lower price.

The Committee also approved supplementary grant, amounting to Rs.16.976 million, for Textile Division. It approved Supplementary Grant of Rs.7415.486 million for Finance Division, in favour of Financial Inclusion & Infrastructure Projects (FIIP), and Technical Supplementary Grant amounting to Rs.562.00 million and Supplementary Grant amounting to Rs.742.531 million for SAP Software License Payment.

Similarly, the Committee also approved Supplementary Grant of Rs.1 (One) billion for Federal Board of Revenue to boost its revenue collection capacity.

In order to pay the outstanding dues to the legal heirs of deceased employees of Pakistan Steel Mills on account of Provident Fund, Gratuity and Payroll, the Committee approved Grant for the purpose which will help address the problems of the legal heirs of deceased employees.

Secretary Water Resources and Chairman WAPDA gave separate presentations on different water projects including major dams namely, Mohmand Dam, Diamir-Bhasha and Dhasu dam.

A delegation from Turkmenistan received by Finance Minister

Minister for Finance Asad Umar today received Turkmenistan delegation led by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr.Rashid Meredov. Mr. Asad Umar briefed the delegation about the economic priorities of the present government which are geared toward people centric economic growth and provision of social services to all citizens across the country.

Finance Division awarded ISO 9001:2015 Certification

Finance Division has been awarded ISO 9001:2015 Certification which replaces the earlier ISO 9001-2008 with the latest  standards of ISO 2001-2015.

Syed Inkesar Hussain, Lead Assessor of Lloyd’s Regular Quality Assurance (LRQA) Ltd  presented the Certificate to the Special Secretary Finance, Omar Hamid Khan at a ceremony held here on Monday.

Addressing on the occasion, Mr. Omar Hamid Khan said that Finance Division successfully met the mandatory requirements for smooth transition to the new Quality Management standards. Accordingly the Certification Body recommended Finance Division for the new Certification which is indeed a great honour and a recognition of the headway that Finance Division has made in quality management standards.

Senior officials of the LRQA Ltd and Ministry of Finance attended the ceremony.

Pakistan, Turkey to boost trade & investment cooperation

The Turkish government has presented its proposals on the Strategic Economic Framework(SEF) to the government of Pakistan. The decision to enter into an SEF was taken during the visit of Prime Minister Imran Khan to Turkey. The Turkish Vice President, Fuat Oktay has written to Finance Minister acknowledging the receipt of proposals from Pakistan side and presenting additional proposals from the Turkish side. The proposals by the two countries cover trade, tourism, healthcare, hospitality industry, education, housing, agriculture, aviation, and banking.         

Following the successful visit of PM Imran Khan to Turkey in January 2019, major progress is taking place in operationalizing the Strategic Economic Framework (SEF) between Pakistan and Turkey.

The purpose of SEF is to enhance volume of bilateral trade five times (currently US$ 900 mn). Towards this goal, the two governments are negotiating a FTA to be signed in 2019. Trade facilitation is to be enhanced through improving connectivity through rail, air, road and sea. Cooperation between Pakistan Railways and TUDEMSAS (Turkish Railway Car Company) and TULOMSAS (Turkish Locomotive and Engine Company) for rail vehicles production maintenance, repair and operation is also envisioned.

Turkey has expressed interest in developing legal framework for tourism infrastructure planning, allocation of public properties to the investors, determination and classification of qualities of hospitality facilities based on international standards.Turkey intends to provide technical support in order to enhance promotion, marketing of tourism, advertising image of the country and production of promotional material. Seminars will be organized reciprocally.

Pakistan has recommended signing of an MoU on cooperation in the field of investment focusing on auto industry, special economic zones, food processing, mining and minerals besides construction sector and tourism. Pakistan looks up to Turkish cooperation in development of tourist resorts.

Similarly, both sides have expressed interest in strengthening cooperation in the field of educational services, inter-university exchange programs and establishment of research centers.

Finance Minister's Speech for Amendment Notice to Speaker on Finance Supplementary (Second Amendment) Bill, 2019

Mr. Speaker!

In order to boost investment in the country, measures were introduced through the Finance Supplementary (Second Amendment) Bill, 2019. In furthering the policy of encouraging investment, various measures were intensively discussed with stakeholders after presentation of the Finance Supplementary (Second Amendment) Bill, 2019 in the House. The Senate of Pakistan completed its reading of the Bill and also gave recommendations. Various chambers of commerce and industry and other associations also came up with their critique of the Bill and gave proposals. All the valuable proposals and recommendations were examined and in light of these, I would like to propose the following amendments to make the Finance Supplementary (Second Amendment) Bill, 2019 more comprehensive and investment friendly:
Amendments in Customs Act, 1969

2.         In order to provide an additional incentive, import of plant and machinery by green field industrial undertaking has been proposed to be exempt from customs duty.

3.         In order to provide further incentive to the industrial undertakings set up in the Special Economic Zones, exemptions from customs duty and advance income tax on import of firefighting equipment have also been proposed.
Amendments in the Sales Tax Act, 1990

Mr. Speaker

4.         It was proposed in the Finance Supplementary (Second Amendment) Bill, 2019 that in order to facilitate the exporters and other businesses, the outstanding sales tax refunds shall be liquidated through issuance of Promissory Notes or bonds by FBR. It has now been decided that the proposed bonds shall be issued by FBR Refund Settlement Company (Pvt) Limited, a fully owned company of FBR.

Amendments in the Income Tax Ordinance, 2001

Mr. Speaker

5.         In order to address the concerns of local manufacturers of motor vehicles, it has been proposed to allow non-filers to purchase locally manufactured vehicles irrespective of engine capacity.
 
6.        As an additional tax incentive to encourage investment in the green field projects, it has been proposed to exempt business income of the green field industrial undertaking for a period of five years. Further it has been proposed to exempt such industrial underlings from minimum tax on their turnover.

7.         As an additional measure, it has been proposed to exempt advance tax on profit paid on Pakistan Banao Certificate, SARMAYA-E-PAKISTAN LIMITED and Duty Drawback Bonds.

8.         Incentives were proposed through Finance Supplementary (Second Amendment) Bill, 2019 for Banks on advancing loans for agriculture, low cost housing and micro, small and medium enterprises. It has been proposed to further streamline these incentives.

9.         Through Finance Supplementary (Second Amendment) Bill, 2019 reduction in tax liability for inter-corporate dividend was proposed. It is proposed to exempt such dividend derived by a company if the company avails group relief according to the proportion of shareholding of the company.
Amendments in the Federal Excise Act, 2005
Mr. Speaker

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of Economic Coordination Committee (ECC)

Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC) in its meeting chaired by Finance Minister Asad Umar here on Tuesday considered proposals from different ministries/ Divisions.

Ministry of Maritime Affairs briefed the ECC on matters relating to  establishment of new LNG terminals at Port Qasim. The Committee was informed that the Port Qasim Authority was looking at various choices with a view to find the most viable option. The Committee gave instructions to expedite the matter and directed for completion of all formalities for setting up the new terminal expeditiously keeping in view the growing energy needs of the country.

ECC approved proposal of Ministry of Energy based on request by Pakistan Petroleum Ltd for allocation of up to 9 mmcfd gas from Fazl X-1 field in distt Matiari  to M/S SSGCL.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of NFIS Council

Government is fully committed to improve the livelihoods of Pakistanis through job creation, promoting entrepreneurship and enhancing access to formal financial services in an efficient and affordable manner, said Finance Minister Asad Umar at the 6th meeting of National Financial Inclusion Strategy (NFIS) Council here on Tuesday.

Chairing the meeting the Finance Minister said that the Government prioritized NFIS as part of its agenda for achieving inclusive economic growth through digitalization of Government payments, enhanced access to finance & deposit base, promotion of small & medium enterprises, easy & affordable access to finance to farmers, facilitation in low cost housing finance and provision of Shariah compliant banking solutions. He said that NFIS targets have been set for these areas for the next 5 years, which will help to create at least 3 million new jobs and additional exports of US$ 5.5 billion by 2023.

The Minister added that under the new targets, the NFIS aims to enhance usage of Digital Payments to 65 million active digital transaction accounts, with gender segregation of 20 million accounts by women. It also aims to enhance deposit to GDP ratio to 55% and promote SME Finance to 700,000 Small and Medium Enterprises; increase Agricultural Finance disbursements to Rs.1.8 trillion, and serve 6 million farmers through digitalized solutions and enhance share of Islamic Banking to 25 percent of the banking industry.

Welcoming the Finance Minister to the meeting, Tariq Bajwa, Governor SBP assured that under his leadership and guidance, NFIS will achieve its objectives of inclusive economic growth, economic stability and financial empowerment to unserved segments of the population. He also gave a detailed background of the achievements made under NFIS so far.

The Council had an overview of the progress of key strategic initiatives approved under NFIS 2023. Further, the Council also approved the revised NFIS Governance structure to ensure smooth implementation of the strategy. This includes transformation of NFIS Council into NFIS Policy & Implementation Council which will be chaired by the Finance Minister and co-chaired by the Governor, SBP. The lead implementation agencies,including federal & provincial ministries, Govt. departments, regulators and private sector, that will be fully empowered and responsible to implement actions in coordination with concerned stakeholders as per the timelines and KPIs mentioned in NFIS 2023, while SBP will continue serving as the NFIS Secretariat.

Finance Minister informed the meeting that an NFIS Transformation Office will be created to facilitate digitalization of Government payments and receipts, and act as a trouble-shooter to resolve issues of Implementing Agencies.

Petroleum Prices for the month of March 2019

The government has decided to change prices of petroleum products for the month of March 2019 as follows:

It may be added that based on international oil prices, increase of Rs. 4.71, Rs 9.44, Rs 8.06 and Rs 5.12 per litre in the price of MS (Petrol), HSD, Kerosene Oil and LDO respectively was worked out but the Government decided not to pass on the full impact of price increase to the consumers and approved a reduced level of increase as indicated in the table above.

The new prices shall be applicable from 1st to 31st March 2019.

Singapore business delegation met with Finance Minister

Finance Minister Asad Umar received the visiting Singapore business delegation for a meeting here on Thursday. Secretary Board of Investment  was also present on the occasion.

Finance Minister said the present government had taken steps for ease of doing business and facilitating both domestic and foreign investors with various incentives including rationalization of tax regime. He said more such steps were envisaged in the budget 2019-20. He said Pakistan held Singapore in high esteem and welcomed its businessmen to invest in different sectors. He assured them of all out support and facilitation.

Leader of the delegation, Shamsher Zaman, Chairman, Middle East Business Group, said Singapore businessmen were encouraged to invest in Pakistan seeing the resolve and eagerness of the present Government to facilitate foreign investors. He said Singapore currently had an overall 800 billion trade volume in which share of Pakistan was not very significant. He desired for efforts to promote trade and business linkages between the two countries. The delegation expressed keen interest to invest in infrastructure, ICT, healthcare, airports / ports management and other sectors.

The delegation was also apprised of investment opportunities in different special economic zones across the country and the key features of the liberal investment regime offered by the Government of Pakistan.

The delegation is undertaking week long visit to Pakistan to explore business and investment opportunities in different sectors. It includes senior representatives from top level companies including Cargill International Trading Pte Ltd; Global Radiance Ship Management Pte Ltd; Hirsk Group Pte Ltd; Imaging the World Pte Ltd; IPL Group Pte Ltd; Kwee Gee Pte Ltd; Lea Tat Chemicals Pte Ltd; Linkers (Far East) Pte Ltd; Mystic Pte Ltd; Pacific Delta shipping (Pvt) Ltd; Prime Structures Engineering Pte Ltd; U & P Pte Ltd and Unicell Paper Pte Ltd.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of Cabinet Committee on Energy (CCoE)

The Cabinet Committee on Energy (CCoE) in its meeting chaired by Finance Minister Asad Umar on Wednesday, approved proposals from Power Division providing for all future Renewable Energy investments to be treated in line with the RE Policy 2019 that envisages a framework consistent with the current international market norms and greater consumer benefits.     

The Power Division informed that draft RE Policy 2019 was currently in circulation for comments by stakeholders and would be presented to the CCoE as soon as such comments were finalized. All those projects which have been granted LoS by AEDB, shall be permitted to proceed towards the achievement of their requisite milestones as per the RE Policy 2006. However in those cases where more than a year has elapsed since determination of tariff by NEPRA, their tariff would have to be reviewed by NEPRA as per policy.

The Power Division also gave the meeting performance update on efficiency improvement and control of theft. The meeting was informed that total collection from November 2017 to January 2018 stood at Rs 203,953 million which rose to Rs. 243,642 million in the same period in FY 2018-19, showing net increase of Rs 39,689 million. Improved recovery from consumers and decrease in losses significantly contributed to the enhanced collection, the meeting was informed. Regarding control of theft, CCoE was apprised that during the period from October 13, 2018 to February 22, 2019 as many as 20,712 FIRs were registered and 1909 arrests were made. Detection bills charged amounted to Rs. 1,278.305 million while the amount of detection recovered was Rs 537.120 million. The CCoE appreciated the Power Division’s effective drive for recoveries and theft control.

The meeting also noted the progress shared by the Power Division on proposed plan/measures to bring down power sector losses.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of Economic Coordination Committee (ECC)

Finance Minister Asad Umar chaired meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC) here on Tuesday.

ECC approved supplementary grant of Rs 4,64,00,000/-(forty six million and four hundred thousand only) for payment to families of deceased employees of Petroleum Division(Policy Wing) under the Prime Minister’s Assistance Package. It may be added that legal heirs of the officers/officials of Petroleum Division (Policy Wing) who died, while in service, between 15.6.13 to 09-02-15, requested that they may be granted all the benefits as per the Prime Minister’s Assistance Package issued on 20th October 2014. So the decision has accordingly been taken.

ECC in consideration of request by Finance Division allowed submission of proposal to the federal cabinet for approval of Rs. 200.075 million supplementary grant to Govt. of Baluchistan under the "Pur aman Baluchistan Policy". Launched in August 2015, the Policy stipulated provision of funds on equal basis by the Federal and Provincial Governments for encouraging misled individuals (Ferraries) to give up militancy and play active role for development and prosperity of the Baluchistan Province.
ECC approved  supplementary grant amounting to Rs. 20.00 million to Ministry of National Food Security & Research (MNFS&R) for operationalisation of its Plant Breeders' Rights Registry. ECC also directed that the process for creation of 71 posts in the Registry may be expedited.

ECC approved proposal of Commerce Division based on request by Philip Morris Pakistan Ltd. for export and analysis of tobacco seed at M/S Eurofins Dr. Specht Lab, Germany. The analysis report would help in production of good quality tobacco in future for domestic use and export purposes.

ECC approved supplementary grant of Rs. 11.441 million to Ministry of Privatization to meet expenses pertaining to relocation of its offices to the new premises, Kohsar Block.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting to discuss matters pertaining to operationalization of PIB and PPPA

Finance Minister Asad Umar chaired high level meeting here on Monday to discuss matters pertaining to operationalization of Pakistan Infrastructure Bank (PIB) and Public – Private Partnership Authority (PPPA).

Both these institutions aim to play a vital role in enhancing Investment to GDP ratio and spur overall economic growth.

The Pakistan Infrastructure Bank is expected to be operational sometime this year. It will provide facility for long term investment to commercially viable projects. It will also provide support to social sector projects besides helping create a long term debt market. IFC is partnering with the Government of Pakistan for establishment of the bank.

The meeting directed for early finalization of rules and procedures for operationalization of PPPA. The authority has already been established.

 Asia Development Bank is providing technical and professional support for operationalizing PPPA which aims to forge Government- private sector cooperation for long term development projects.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of Economic Coordination Committee (ECC)

Finance Minister Asad Umar chaired meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC) on Tuesday. The meeting considered and approved proposals presented by different ministries.

Ministry of Industries and Production presented to the ECC an update on the current status of NAB cases regarding Pakistan Steel Mills. ECC expressed concern on the slow progress of the cases and directed  that the cases be actively pursued. ECC further directed that a case be initiated for placement of names of personnel under investigation in different cases on ECL.

ECC considered and approved proposal of Commerce Division for amendments in the Import Policy Order 2016, further beefing up existing labeling requirements for import of edible, specially halal products. The step would ensure clarity on ingredients of the imported products in Urdu language for benefit of the consumers.

Ministry of National Food Security and Research apprised ECC about demand and supply situation of Urea and DAP fertilizers in the country. ECC directed for continued operation of the two urea plants beyond the month of February till October to ensure sufficient supply/stock of the fertilizer; Ministry of Industry would accordingly submit proposal to the ECC on operation of the plants. A review of the fertilizer stocks in the country would be taken in August for necessary course correction, if needed.      
FBR shared with the ECC a report, highlighting the current position of auction of abandoned containers / lots and also elaborating the procedures for clearance / disposal of consignments at ports along with the challenges faced in the process. ECC while laying emphasis on simplification of procedures and promotion of e-clearance, directed formation of a Committee headed by Minister for Maritime Affairs to prepare proposals for prompt and efficient cargo clearance (both containers and vehicles) at the ports to reduce the port congestion and improving ease of doing business. The Committee would share its proposals with ECC in two weeks.

The Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development (OP&HRD) briefed the ECC about the current position of manpower export to different countries and efforts for seeking employment opportunities in international labour market including the gulf countries. The Ministry of Federal Education & Professional training informed the ECC that it had a data bank of over 600,000 skilled manpower, who have graduated from the NAVTCC platform. ECC directed for constitution of an Inter-ministerial Task Force with OP&HRD as lead Ministry, for formulating concrete proposals with clear targets on development and export of manpower. The meeting laid emphasis on skill development, standardization and accreditation of technical training, information sharing, connectivity between websites of NAVTCC and OP&HRD, particularly on opportunities abroad for benefit of employment seekers.

Chambers of Commerce & Industries delegation called on Finance Minister

A delegation comprising Presidents of fourteen chambers of commerce and industries from all over the country called on the Finance Minister Asad Umar here on Tuesday. The delegation was led by Almas Haider, President LCCI.

The delegation had discussion with the Minister on overall business environment in the country, measures for  facilitation to business community and shared with him proposals in this regard.

Finance Minister said the present government would extend all possible facilitation to the business and traders  community as they had a major contribution and key role  to play in strengthening of the economy. He said steps were also afoot for rationalization of tax regime.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Privatization (CCoP)

Finance Minister Asad Umar here on Wednesday chaired meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Privatization (CCoP). Minister for Privatization Muhammad Mian Soomro was also present on the occasion.

Secretary Privatization Division shared with the meeting progress on the Active Privatization List which includes National Power Parks Management Company, (NPPMCL), SME Bank, divestment of Govt’s residual shares in Mari Petroleum Company, Services International Hotel, Lakhra Coal Development Company, Jinnah Convention Centre, Islamabad and the First Women Bank Ltd.  

The Committee was informed that progress of various degrees had been achieved on the PSEs included in this list.

The CCoP was also briefed on follow up action on decisions taken in the meeting held on 31st October 2018. 

The CCoP was informed that in pursuance of the decision 15 PSEs including PIA have already been delisted from the Privatization Programme. 

Senior officials of PIA apprised the Committee regarding the current status and future prospects of Roosevelt Hotel, New York. The Committee directed that formal proposal in this regard may be finalized by June 2019. 

The Commerce Division was also directed to fast track study / evaluation regarding Insurance and Reinsurance sector,(SLIC, NICL & Pak Re-Insurance Company)  along with the need for Regulatory Framework improvements, which should precede process of privatization.  Commerce Division would present its report in this regard to the CCoP by 31st of March. 

The Petroleum Division was directed to expedite the work on regulatory framework for creation of competitive market place for gas sector.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of FBR Policy Board

Finance Minister Asad Umar chaired the first meeting of the “FBR Policy Board” created under the FBR Act 2007 here Wednesday.

Finance Minister shall be the chairman of the Policy Board and the Ministers for Commerce, Textile, Industries and Privatization shall be the ex-officio members of the Board along with Chairmen standing committees on Finance and Revenue – senate and National Assembly. Chairman FBR shall be the Secretary of the Board. Among the nominated members  (in advisory capacity) were Mr. Abdul Razak Dawood, Mr. Hammad Azhar, Senator Kauda Babar, Syed Javed (IT Professional ) , Mr Usman Yousaf  Mubeen (Chairman NADRA) and Mr. Abdullah Yousaf ( former chairman FBR). 

Chairman FBR gave a detailed briefing on the working of the Federal Board of Revenue and specially mentioned the actions recently taken by FBR to improve its performance. Separation of Tax Policy and Administration, Draft of FBR Transformation Plan, Swiss Avoidance of double taxation treaty ratified, identification of 152,201 Pakistani nationals with undeclared assets abroad, Retailers Electronically linked with FBR, 6451 high net-worth non-filers issued notices;( revenue recovered PKR 245 million),4961  potentially undeclared properties abroad identified, objective criteria performance management, integrity Management Unit created were the highlights of the chairman’s briefing.

All the ex-officio and nominated  members congratulated the Finance Minister on the formation of the policy Board after such a long time and welcomed the stance of the PTI government to consult with non-governmental members for improvement of the Tax system of the country. After the detailed briefing by Chairman FBR and view sharing by the members, it was decided that the senate standing committee on law and justice shall be asked to review FBR laws where criminal investigation agencies have an overlapping jurisdiction with FBR so that the authority of FBR may be ascertained. Chairman NADRA was directed by the Chair to start working on proposals for broadening of the Tax Base through the use of data already available at the NADRA data base, the suggestions will be reviewed by the Policy Board in detail for further action.

Mr. Abdullah Yousaf stressed on the need for “Systemization through Automation” so that the elements of harassment and use of discretionary powers may be minimized. He was also directed by the chair to make detailed presentation on the Audit and inspection system of FBR and suggest improvements in the system. The presentation will be first shared with MoS Revenue and later be brought to the policy Board for further action.

Minister of State for Revenue said that it is his earnest desire that the FBR Policy Board may design ToRs for bridging the gap between policy and administration.  

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of Economic Coordination Committee (ECC)

The ECC of the Cabinet in its meeting chaired by the Finance Minister Asad Umar here on Tuesday approved measures for uplift of the cotton crop in the country.

Secretary Ministry of National food Security & Research gave the meeting a detailed presentation on issues and challenges in the cotton sector. Experts in the field of cotton growing who were specially invited to the meeting also gave their input for developing the cotton crop.

ECC decided that Ministry of NFS&R will present, within 30 days, a plan for strengthening research and development services for different crops with particular focus on cotton. The Ministry will also submit plan for revitalization of federal institutions tasked with the responsibility of developing the cotton sector. ECC also directed Ministry of NFS&R to expedite efforts for implementing PB Ropes technology to counter the pink bollworm which impedes cotton growth. The meeting directed that Ministry of Industries and Production would take measures for recovery of cotton cess from textile mills so as to give impetus to cotton promotion activities, which are to be funded through the cess. 

ECC accorded approval for additional guarantees to PIACL of Rs 5.6 billion for repair and maintenance of engines and acquisition of related spare parts for operationalizing grounded planes. The step would strengthen PIACL’s route rationalization initiatives and add to revenue generation of the national flag carrier.

The Ministry of Maritime Affairs briefed the meeting about various concessions granted to the Gwadar Port and Gwadar Free Zone. ECC directed that BoI, Ministry of Planning, Ministry of Maritime Affairs, Law Division and FBR to review the proposals and revert to the Committee.

ECC in consideration of proposal submitted by Petroleum Division gave its consent for the Frontier Oil Company to undertake/implement the Machike -Tarujabba Oil Pipeline project. The project, consisting of three sections i.e. Machike-Chak Pirana, Chak Pirana-rawat and Rwat-Tarujabba, aims at transportation of High Speed Diesel and Motor Spirit.

Saudi media delegation called on Finance Minister

The visiting Saudi media delegation called on Finance Minister Asad Umar here on Tuesday.

Finance Minister welcomed the guests and shared with them the present government’s ongoing drive for macroeconomic stabilization and strengthening of  economy.

The Minister said Pakistan offered multiple opportunities for foreign investors and welcomed Saudi companies to invest in various sectors in Pakistan including petro-chemicals and mining sector. He made special mention of the oil refinery project envisaged by the Saudi side in Pakistan and said it will have a lasting impact on Pakistan’s economy both in terms of investment and growth.

The Minister said that both countries are now focused on providing opportunities to the youth to enable them play a key role in socio-economic development. He also welcomed Saudi participation in CPEC projects.

Proposals for Pak-Turkey Economic Framework Reviewed

Finance Minister Asad Umar here on Tuesday chaired  meeting of the Committee on Pak-Turkey Strategic Economic Framework. The meeting reviewed the progress on formation of the proposed framework.

Minister for Energy, Advisor to Prime Minister on Commerce & Textile, Minister for IPC and Minister for Privatization attended the meeting.

Secretary Economic Affairs Division gave a detailed presentation and shared with the meeting proposals from various ministries and divisions. Important among them include proposal from the Ministry of Commerce for enhancing trade through FTAs and easing of customs procedures by both sides. Ministry of Textile proposed that the two countries should consider setting up textile and garment cities. The participants felt that Pakistan should benefit from the best practices adopted by Turkey for development of tourism industry.

The Finance Minister observed that there is great scope for the development of auto sector in Pakistan with the help of Turkey. He also said that banks from both sides should be encouraged to establish branches in each other’s country to promote business linkages and facilitate financial transactions. He also viewed that collaboration between PIA and Turkish Airlines may be promoted to improve communication facilities for Pakistan citizens travelling to various destinations.

The Finance Minister appreciated the proposal for establishment of a credit Guarantee Fund for trade enhancement. The Minister was informed that all provincial chief secretaries have been asked to send their proposals for the Economic Framework and their responses are being compiled.

Secretary EAD said that through this framework, it is expected that there would be a threefold expansion in the areas of trade and economic cooperation between the two countries.

Finance Minister directed that all the proposals being sent by different ministries and divisions may be consolidated on priority so that these can be shared with the Turkish side for consideration and concurrence.

Prime Minister of Pakistan had a meeting with Ms. Christine Lagarde, Managing Director of the IMF in Dubai

Prime Minister Imran Khan had a meeting with Ms. Christine Lagarde, Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on the sidelines of the World Government Summit in Dubai on Sunday 10th February 2019. 

The Prime Minister appreciated IMF’s support to Pakistan and shared his vision for nation-building. He reiterated the government’s commitment for undertaking structural & governance reforms and strengthening social protection in the country. 

The IMF Managing Director acknowledged the steps taken so far by the Pakistan Government for stabilizing the economy. She said the IMF will remain engaged in supporting Pakistan in sustaining its economic recovery.  

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of National Finance Commission (NFC)

The inaugural meeting of the reconstituted 9th National Finance Commission (NFC) was held here on Wednesday. Finance Minister Asad Umar chaired the meeting.

Finance Minister Asad Umar welcomed all the participants to the meeting and said NFC has been tasked under the Constitution with amicable distribution of financial resources among the federation and the provinces, and as such its effective role had an important bearing on overall national cohesion. He said that apart from distribution, the NFC should also address critical issues related to developing a sustainable fiscal structure for center as well as the federating units. It should also address the social development and poverty alleviation challenges and facilitate the private sector with a view to foster economic development opportunities for the general public.

Federal Secretary Finance briefly recounted the history of NFC awards and shared with the participants details on fiscal position of the federal government. He apprised the meeting about federal fiscal operations and net revenues of federal and provincial governments.

Provincial Ministers/Secretaries Finance gave the meeting update on their fiscal position and also in the process dilated on issues faced by them in different spheres due to resource constraints. The ever rising burden of pension payments, allocation for FATA and need for improved coordination on data sharing were highlighted. They also shared with the meeting proposals on transfer of funds as well as possible future models of revenue generation. Representative from Baluchistan highlighted the fiscal challenges and the progress being made by the Province through interprovincial cooperation and support. He also emphasized better and increased use of automation for revenue generation.

KP raised the issue of net hydel profit and difficulties being faced on account of funding required for retirement benefits of employees. Secretary Finance Punjab called for improved coordination between federal and provincial authorities for timely data sharing. Member Sindh pointed out less transfers made under the heads "Straight Transfers" and proposed that data on this account may be shared with Provinces.  The participants laid emphasis on smooth vertical and horizontal transfer of funds. The participants also emphasized on the need to end regional disparities.

Chairman FBR on the occasion briefed the meeting on revenue generation/tax collection in the current financial year.

The participants of the meeting were of the opinion that both the federal government as well as the provinces were under-resourced and that additional revenue was needed to meet expenses in different realms including socio-economic development activities. The need was also felt for more clarity on revenue projections by FBR so that the provincial governments could plan adjustments in expenditure accordingly.

The meeting decided to form six sub-groups to make proposals/ recommendations on (1) Macroeconomic framework and benchmarking, to be coordinated by Punjab, (2) Vertical Distribution of the divisible pool taxes between federation and provinces including needs of AJ&K and GB to be coordinated by Federal Government (3) Horizontal Distribution of divisible pool taxes amongst provinces to be coordinated by Baluchistan (4) Straight Transfers to be coordinated by Baluchistan (5) Measures required to be taken to simplify tax procedures and payment systems to facilitate businesses to be coordinated by Sindh and (6) Integration/ merger of FATA in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to be coordinated by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

It was decided that the next NFC meeting will be convened after six weeks at Lahore. NFC Sectt. at the Ministry of Finance will be further strengthened for better coordination amongst the sub groups.

The meeting expressed agreement to Finance Minister Asad Umar’s suggestion for including the provinces in the process of dialogue with IMF with regard to the fiscal targets over the medium term.

Finance Minister called upon all the members to contribute their best towards formulating a new NFC award in future.

Chief Minister Sindh, Murad Ali Shah, Finance Minister Punjab, Makhdoom Hashim Jawan Bakht, Finance Minister KP, Taimur Saleem Khan Jhagra, Federal Secretary Finance, Provincial members, Provincial Secretaries Finance and senior officials of the Ministry of Finance attended the meeting.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of Cabinet Committee on Energy

Finance Minister, Asad Umar, Chaired meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Energy (CCoE) here on Wednesday. The meeting was especially called on the instructions of the Prime Minister to look into the matter of inflated gas billings to the consumers.

The Committee decided to conduct an independent audit of the billing for December 2018 through external auditors in addition to the inquiry regarding excessive billing already  conducted by the Petroleum Division. The reports of both the inquiry and the independent audit would be submitted to CCoE.

Prior to that Secretary Petroleum Division gave a detailed presentation to the Committee on the recent billing exercise of the Gas sector. Chairman OGRA and MD SNGPL also gave their input in this regard. The meeting was informed that the consumers are billed according to the slabs in which they fall, in accordance with their consumption. The Secretary Petroleum Division said that following the complaints of a large number of consumers an inquiry has already been launched to look into the matter. The inquiry would look at the issue comprehensively from all the different angles.

The Secretary also briefed the Committee that there has been an overall increase of 8% in the consumption pattern of the consumers falling in the lowest consumption slab.  He also said that out of the total 6400,000 gas consumers only 92,000 that fall in the 6th and 7th(highest consumption slabs), have been affected by high gas bills. It was also pointed out by chairman OGRA that during the month of December the domestic consumption of gas doubles which has changed the pricing slabs for many consumers. However, she also suggested that the data for the last two months may be looked into to find any anomaly.

The meeting also discussed the issue of Gas theft,action taken against illegal practices and the determination of the unaccounted for Gas (UFG) loss benchmark and  directed M/o Energy to address the issue.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of Economic Coordination Committee (ECC)

The meeting of Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC) was held here on Monday. Finance Minister Asad Umar chaired the meeting.

Chairman Board of Investment(BoI) gave a detailed presentation to the ECC on development of SEZs in the country and related issues.

ECC decided that BOI will reduce the time frame for approval of SEZ applications from 90 days to 45 days. Further, it will propose certain changes in SEZ Act to make it more investor friendly. It was also decided that SEZs of Islamabad and Bostan will be included in the list of priority SEZs under CPEC. ECC also asked BoI to revisit the requirements for setting up of tourism, IT and health related entities within SEZs.

ECC directed Petroleum and Power Divisions to devise a road map, within 30 days, for provision of electricity/gas to all industrial estates.

Petroleum Prices Reduced

The government has decided to reduce the prices of petroleum products barring HSD, for the month of February 2019.

While price of HSD is being maintained at the current level, price of petrol has been reduced by Rs 0.59, kerosene by Rs 0.73 and that of LDO by Rs 0.25 per litre.

Accordingly, prices of petroleum products for the month of February 2019 shall be as under:

These prices shall be applicable from 1st of February till 28th February 2019.

DFID chief economist called on Finance Minister

Chief Economist, Department for International Development (DFID), UK,  Rachel Glennerster called on Finance Minister Asad Umer here on Wednesday. Ms Glennerster appreciated the measures taken by the government to stabilize the macroeconomic imbalances and informed the Finance Minister of the support being provided by DFID towards  economic and social development of Pakistan.

The Chief Economist also had exchange of views with the Finance Minister on government's plans to reform the energy sector and promote renewable energy solutions. She informed the Minister that DFID is ready to assist the Government of Pakistan to tap climate finance funds to support the drive for renewable energy.

The Finance Minister appreciated the work being done by DFID in Pakistan.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of Monetary and Fiscal Policies Coordination Board

The meeting of Monetary and Fiscal Policies Coordination Board was held here on Tuesday.

The meeting was chaired by Finance Minister, Mr. Asad Umar. The meeting reviewed the fiscal and monetary policies besides having discussion on the external sector. The on-going adjustment plan for fiscal consolidation was presented to the Board. While reviewing the fiscal policy, the Board observed that there is further scope for tightening of the fiscal stance.

The corrective measures taken by the government, both on the fiscal and quasi fiscal deficit were discussed. The meeting observed that fiscal consolidation is a key element of the adjustment plan, and necessary for ensuing macroeconomic stability. The Board emphasized ensuring that revenue targets both on tax and non-tax side are met and expenditure controls continue to remain well in place. The key economic variables for the first half of FY 19 were deliberated in detail. The direction of external trade data is encouraging and points to the fact that fiscal and monetary tightening are having an impact on correcting the imbalances.

The growth in remittances is also encouraging. The meeting appreciated the fact that there was substantial participation in the last auction of PIBs. The meeting observed that real interest rates are positive and would help manage aggregate demand and reduce the output gap. On the monetary front, SBP reported that M2 in FY 19 is growing at higher pace while NFA has contracted. Turning to private sector credit, its growth momentum continued and is explained by increased input prices, the continuation of the investment cycle and ample liquidity with banks. Moreover, analysis shows that subsidized and non-subsidized credit to export-orientated sector has increased.

The meeting was attended by Minister for Planning, Development & Reforms, Dr. Furrukh Iqbal, Director IBA, officials from Ministry of Finance and State Bank of Pakistan.

Finance Minister chaired meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC)

Finance Minister Asad Umar chaired the meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet here on Tuesday.

ECC approved Ministry of National Food Security’s proposal for allowing the export of 0.5 million tons of surplus wheat/ wheat products by PASSCO for which it had received tenders. The decision was made keeping in view the rising prices of wheat in the international markets, sufficient available stocks (1.7 million tons) and the predictions of a good crop in the current crop season.

The Ministry of Energy, Power Division gave a detailed presentation on the current situation of Circular Debt and the components that have contributed to its build up. ECC after detailed discussion, allowed the Ministry to proceed with the raising of syndicated Islamic Term Finance Facility of Rs. 200 billion for which term sheet had already been received from a Consortium of Islamic Banks.

Finance Minister chaired meeting of the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC)

Finance Minister Asad Umar here on Friday chaired meeting of the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) here on Friday.

ECNEC considered and approved revised Emergency Plan for Polio Eradication at a cost of USD 986.29 million. The plan envisages to end polio cases through Supplemental Immunization Activities (SIAs) across the country and undertaking environmental surveillance to completely curb polio virus transmission. Polio was declared as a national public health emergency in 2011 and yearly National Emergency Action Plan (NEAP) for Polio Eradication is accordingly being implemented under direct guidance and oversight of the National Task Force (NTF) for Polio Eradication.

ECNEC discussed and approved Project regarding Feasibility Study and Dualisation of Mardan-Swabi Road (42 KM) at a total cost of Rs. 9,550 million. The project envisages dualization / improvement of existing 42 km long Mardan-Swabi Road to a dual carriageway road, each carriageway having 7.3 m width. The scope of work includes construction of 14 new bridges, improvement of 8 existing bridges, underpass, 75 new culverts besides having other features.

ECNEC also discussed the Nai Gaj Dam Project at length. The Committee after detailed deliberations decided to seek additional technical inputs on the project from the Government of Sindh so that an informed decision could be taken at the next meeting.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC)

Meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet was held here on Tuesday. Finance Minister Asad Umar chaired the meeting

ECC discussed and approved proposal of Ministry of Commerce & Textile  relating to payment of duty and taxes on all imported vehicles in new/used condition under personal baggage or gift scheme, through foreign exchange arranged by Pakistan Nationals themselves or local recipient supported by bank encashment certificate showing conversion of foreign remittance to local currency.

ECC approved regulatory amendments in the Export Policy Order 2016 and Import Policy Order 2016 as proposed by Commerce Division. These will be submitted for consideration of the Federal Cabinet. The amendments are aimed at enhancing ease of doing business in the country.

ECC in consideration of the proposal submitted by the Ministry of Commerce & Textile, accorded approval for withdrawal of customs duty, additional customs duty and sales tax on import of cotton effective 1st of February 2019 to 30thJune 2019. The step is aimed at ensuring sufficient supply of cotton for the textile industry, especially its export segment.

ECC discussed and approved another proposal from Ministry of Commerce and Textile to clear outstanding claims of drawback of local taxes and levies (DLTL) under the exports incentive scheme announced by the Government in Finance Act 2014-15. The ECC decided that cases which were submitted in time but have been pending due to want of funds, will be entertained by the government.

Trade deficit shrinks as imports decline and exports go up

Government’s policy measures have resulted in shrinking of trade deficit, decline in imports and increase in exports which augurs well for overall balance of payment of the country.

The trade deficit that stood at US$ 17.7 Billion in July- December 2017 has shrunk by 5% to US$16.8 Billion in the corresponding period in 2018.

The overall imports from July-December 2018 have shrunk by over 2% from US$ 28.7 Billion in July – December 2017 to US$ 28 Billion in July – December 2018. This trend is even more pronounced in respect of imports under RD regime, where the import value has declined from US$ 5.2 Billion in July – December 2017 to US$ 4.4 Billion in July – December 2018, showing a contraction of 16% (effective on 1994 tariff lines).

The trade balance in December 2018 compared to December 2017 shrunk by 19% from US$ 2.9 Billion to US$ 2.3 Billion.

In December 2018, the imports in US $ term declined to US$ 4.3 billion compared to US$ 4.9 billion in December 2017 which reflects an import compression of over 12%.
This trend is even more pronounced in December 2018 in respect of imports under RD regime (effective on 1994 tariff lines) wherein the imports declined from US$ 896 million in December 2017 to US$ 691 million in December 2018 (-23%).

Data indicates that the import compression measures taken in the supplementary Finance Act, 2018 have firmly taken hold and are now effectively curtailing imports as per policy regime of the government. The data on import of containerized cargo also has shrunk by (9%).

There is a growth in exports of 5.5% in December 2018 compared to December 2017. In the first six months from July-December 2018 exports have shown a growth of over 2% compared to the same period last year.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC)

The meeting of Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) was held here on Wednesday. Finance Minister Asad Umar chaired the meeting.

ECNEC had detailed discussion on matters pertaining to the project regarding Operation of Basic Education Community Schools (BECS) in the country. The Committee accorded approval for revised project with a total cost of Rs. 4058.158 million, clearing the previous liabilities and six months expenses of the current financial year up to December 2018. This will be subject to verification of personnel and facilities by NADRA/Distt. Administration concerned. 

The Basic Education Community Schools project is based on non-formal basic education system where the community provides for the premises while expenses on teachers’ honorarium, utility bills, text books etc are met by the Federal Government.

ECC discussed matters regarding cotton import duty, PSM revival plan

The meeting of Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC) was held here on Tuesday. Finance Minister Asad Umar chaired the meeting.

ECC had a detailed discussion on the proposal of Textile Division regarding withdrawal of custom duty, additional custom duty and sales tax on import of cotton. The proposal was aimed at facilitating the import of cotton to bridge the demand and supply gap in the country, thereby helping out the textile industry, especially the export segment. The Committee noted that detailed trade and revenue related data was required, which was not made part of the proposal. The relevant ministries were  directed to fill the data gaps so that an informed decision could be taken in the matter.

The Ministry of Industries & Production shared with the meeting progress on the plan of action currently being formulated by a specially constituted experts group, suggesting viable options to revitalize the Pakistan Steel Mills (PSM). The committee directed that the plan of action should be prepared in a cohesive manner, taking on board the PSM Board of Directors/Management and submitted for  final approval as per the given timelines.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC)

The meeting of Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC) was held here on Tuesday. Finance Minister Asad Umar chaired the meeting.

ECC reviewed the demand and supply situation of urea in the country. The Committee directed Ministry of Industries and Production to chalk out a plan for continuous and smooth operation of urea plants in the country throughout the year. The exercise, ECC observed would help ensure availability of sufficient stocks of the fertilizer to meet demand of the farmers’ community. 

The ECC while considering the proposal regarding provision of funds for personnel related dues in the Pakistan Machine Tool Factory (PMTF), directed Ministry of Industries & Production to share with the Committee,  a strategy to revitalize the PMTF. ECC observed that the institution had done great service for the engineering sector and had the potential to effectively carry on this role, for which it needed to be strengthened. 

The ECC approved proposal of Ministry of Energy (Petroleum Division) for supply of up to 25 MMCFD additional gas from Adhi Gas Field to Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Ltd. (SNGPL) to meet the existing gas demand on the system. 

ECC also discussed proposal of Ministry of Energy (Petroleum Division) for fuel supply agreement between Pakistan State Oil (PSO) and State Oil Company of Republic of Azerbaijan. The Committee advised Ministry of Energy to carry out further consultations with stakeholders including Ministry of Commerce and Public Procurement Regulatory Authority before a final decision in the matter. 

Finance Minister chaired a meeting to review the progress of work on different economic zones in the country

Finance Minister Asad Umar chaired a meeting here on Monday to review the progress of work on different economic zones in the country. Minister for Planning, Development and Reform Makhdoom Khusro Bakhtyar was also present on the occasion.

The meeting during the progress review extended special consideration to economic zones in the province of Baluchistan including Hub.

The meeting decided that Ministry of Planning Development & Reform will ensure necessary infrastructure arrangements for the zones which aim to promote economic activities throughout the country. As for requirement of electricity, the Power Division will look after all necessary matters. 

Petroleum Prices

The government has decided to reduce the prices of petroleum products for the month of January 2019.

Price of Petrol and diesel has been reduced by Rs 4.86 and Rs 4.26 per litre respectively. The price of Kerosene oil has been reduced by Rs 0.52 and that of LDO by Rs 2.16 per litre. 

Accordingly, prices of petroleum products for the month of January 2019 shall be as under:

These prices shall be applicable from 1st – 31st January 2019.

Chief Minister Gilgit-Baltistan discussed development schemes with Finance Minister

Finance Minister Asad Umar received the Chief Minister Gilgit-Baltistan, Hafiz Hafeezur Rehman for a meeting here on Friday.

Chief Minister GB apprised the Finance Minister about the different development schemes in Gilgit-Baltistan and also shared with him the financial requirements in different areas.

During the meeting they both expressed agreement that there was great potential for development in the spheres of hydro energy and tourism.

The Chief Minister said that steps were being taken to develop the tourism sector in GB and added that road connectivity within GB as well as with KP, would facilitate achieving this objective.  

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of Cabinet Committee on Privatization (CCOP)

The meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Privatization (CCOP) was held here on Wednesday. Finance Minister Asad Umar Chaired the meeting.

Secretary Privatization Division gave the meeting an update on privatization process of public sector entities on the active privatization list including RLNG Power Plants (Balloki and Haveli Bahadurshah) under National Power Parks Management Company (NPPMCL), Lakhra Coal Mines and Services International Hotel. Matters relating to divestment of Govt’s residual shares in Mari Petroleum Company also came under discussion.

With a view to facilitating simultaneous and smooth privatization of both RLNG plants, the CCOP gave its nod of approval for privatization of the NPPMCL. CCOP also accorded go ahead to divest residual govt. shares of 18.39 % in Mari Petroleum Company Ltd. 

In case of Lakhra Coal Mines, the CCOP directed that since the matter is subjudice its privatization process may be pursued only after decision by the Supreme Court.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting with different Islamic Banks on matters pertaining to launch of Islamic Sukuk

Finance Minister Asad Umar chaired meeting of senior representatives of different Islamic Banks on matters pertaining to launch of Islamic Sukuk by the Government (PHPL)here on Thursday.

A consortium of Islamic Banks, it may be added has been assigned the task to coordinate with the Government and facilitate it for the launch.

During the meeting representatives of the Islamic banks apprised the meeting about the progress for the subject launch. They also informed that most of spade work had already been completed and there were minor irritants left to be removed.

Finance Minister appreciated the increasing role of Islamic Banks in the overall banking sector and their potential for providing strength to economy. He assured the delegation of all out support from the Government for the planned launch of Islamic sukook which aims to generate sufficient finances to ease out liquidity of the power sector.

Expeditious Refund System to be improved for early processing of exporters' claims

Finance Minister Asad Umar held a meeting with a delegation of Pakistan Business Council (PBC) here Wednesday.

The PBC delegation discussed with the Minister the overall business environment in the country and made recommendations for necessary policy interventions to enhance business & commercial activity in the economy. The recommendations included measures related to tax as well as ease of doing business in general.

Finance Minister said the government believed in facilitating all sectors of the economy and was taking serious measures to create an enabling business environment. Having a quality tax regime which could help achieve this end was among government’s top priorities. The Minister particularly expressed government’s commitment to resolve the sales tax refund issue on a sustainable basis. He informed the delegation that FBR had been directed to review and improve the Expeditious Refund System (ERS) parameters to ensure early processing of exporters' claims. He said that the procedure for processing of DLTL claims was also being revised to ensure that the delays are eliminated.

The delegation also raised the issue of GIDC. The Minister said that the prolonged litigation was neither in the interest of the business community nor the government. He sought recommendations of the business community to resolve this long standing issue.

The Minister said that the government was working on enhancing productivity of various sectors and promoting value addition with a view to achieving export enhancement and job creation. He invited the business community to make suggestions for achieving these objectives. 

Adviser to the Prime Minister on Commerce and Industries, Abdul Razak Dawood, Minister of State for Revenue, Mohammad Hammad Azhar  were also present in the meeting.

Pakistan achieves more than 1 billion USD disbursement from ADB during FY2018

Finance Minister Asad Umar received Mr. Tomoyuki Kimura, Director General Strategy, Policy & Review Deptt, Asian Development Bank (ADB) for a meeting here on Wednesday.

Finance Minister on the occasion said that ADB’s continued support and pro-active approach has further strengthened its relationship and partnership with Pakistan, which is now at a historic high level. Pakistan achieved more than 1 billion USD disbursement from ADB during FY2018 which is the highest disbursement amongst all multilateral development partners. Minister Asad said the present government is taking various measures and reforms that will help the country steer out of current economic situation on both fronts i.e. external economic challenges including trade deficit, low FDI and forex reserves. As regards domestic challenges, we are focusing on fiscal consolidation, monetary policy and financial inclusion. He appreciated ADB's recently approved Country Operations Business Plan (COBP) 2019-2021 for Pakistan with an indicative assistance of 7.5 billion USD.

DG ADB apprised the Finance Minister about salient features of the ADB 2030 strategy. He dilated on different new lending products including special policy based lending. Discussion also focused on private sector lending. He said ADB will also provide programme lending facility to Pakistan to the tune of $ 2.3 billion in the next three years, starting 2019, in the spheres of future energy sector development, trade and competitiveness and capital market development. This lending facility, it may be added, is part of the COBP.

Finance Minister thanked Mr. Tomoyuki Kimura for the provision of technical assistance in capacity building of personnel in Finance and Economic Affairs Divisions. He also appreciated the pro-active role of the ADB’s Pakistan Resident Mission under the leadership of Ms. Xiaohong Yang  for promoting Pak-ADB economic partnership.

Finance Minister chaired a meeting of the National Executive Committee (NEC)

Finance Minister Asad Umar chaired a meeting of the National Executive Committee (NEC) on Tuesday to review the progress on FATF Action Plan.

National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA) made a detailed presentation on the Terrorist Financing Risk Assessment, prepared jointly by NACTA and FIA in consultation with a number of relevant authorities. 

After detailed deliberations on various aspects of the assessment report, the NEC approved the same subject to addressing certain observations in respect of key policy and legislative areas. NACTA will finalize the report accordingly. The NEC also approved the Risk Assessment Report on cash smuggling prepared by FBR-Customs.

Financial Monitoring Unit (FMU) presented the analysis on suspicious transaction reports filed by the financial sector in the last three years and the law enforcement actions taken against money laundering and terrorism financing on the basis of such reports.

The NEC advised the authorities concerned to enhance enforcement actions and adopt a result oriented approach.The Chairman NEC advised all the departmental heads to regularly monitor timely implementation of the FATF Action Plan. The need for a coordinated effort with the provinces was also highlighted.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC)

The ECC in consideration of proposal from the Ministry of Industries and Production approved the price of imported urea at Rs. 1712/- per 50 kg bag for National Fertilizer Marketing Limited dealers.

It may be mentioned that ECC had directed the Trading Corporation of Pakistan on 10th September 2018 to import 100,000 MT Urea to ensure availability of sufficient stocks in the country to meet the requirements in the Rabi season.

ECC discussed and approved proposal of the Ministry of Commerce to amend the Export Policy Order (EPO) 2016, to the effect that the export of ethanol and other products manufactured from cane molasses shall be subject to the condition that cane molasses used in production of ethanol and other products manufactured from cane molasses being exported is either produced in-house by the exporter or purchased directly from a sugar mill. Proper recording of production and sale of molasses, can be used as an indicator to gauge the production of sugar thus assist in collection of due taxes. The ECC was informed that due consultation had been carried out with FBR as well as the Sugar manufacturers, on the proposal.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC)

Meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet was held here on Wednesday. Finance Minister Asad Umar chaired the meeting.

ECC cleared proposal of Ministry of IT regarding approval of budget estimates of National Telecommunication Corporation (NTC) by the federal cabinet. ECC however, observed that NTC being an autonomous and self earning body should be empowered like other public sector corporations to formulate and approve its own budget. The Committee directed that necessary authorization may be granted so that in future the budget is considered and approved by the NTC Board.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of Monetary and Fiscal Policies Coordination Board

Monetary and Fiscal Policies Coordination Board met here Friday to review the current state of Pakistan’s economy. Finance Minister Asad Umar chaired the meeting.

The following areas were reviewed:(i) the fiscal policy;(ii) the external sector and (iii) the recent steps in monetary policy.

While reviewing fiscal policy, the Board noted that fiscal deficit for the first quarter of FY19 turned out to be 1.4 percent of GDP. The Board appreciated the authorities adjustment plan for fiscal consolidation. The impact of fiscal consolidation measures implemented in the recent months would be visible from the second quarter of the current financial year. This consolidation is an important element of the homegrown adjustment plan and will play an integral part for ensuring economic stability. The need for continued effort to ensure revenue generation and expenditure controls was emphasized in the meeting. As far as the financing of the fiscal deficit is concerned, the Board discussed the inflationary and monetary impact of reliance on SBP financing during the current financial year.  The fiscal authorities explained that the financing mix is expected to record a substantial improvement as most of the external financing would be realized from January, 2019 onwards, which will result in lesser reliance on banking sector borrowing.

Turning to the external sector the Coordination Board was apprised that current account is visibly responding to the measures taken since Jan 2018.  In the first four months, of current financial year, non-oil imports witnessed a decline of 4% compared to high growth of 25% over the same period last year.  Remittances have recorded a substantial growth in FY19, while exports have shown growth of 4%. On the exchange rate front, the Board discussed the recent volatility in the PKR parity. The Board is of the view that the present developments are mainly explained by market demand-supply gap of dollar liquidity on the one hand and more underlying structural impediments on the other. In principal the parity should be at their competitive-enhancing levels. Accordingly, after the latest adjustments, it is now more reflective of economy’s medium-term needs and market conditions. The Board also anticipates that the short-term conditions on the exchange rate front are likely to normalize. Particularly, availability of deferred oil facilities and the recent decline in the international oil prices is expected to reduce pressures in the Pakistan foreign exchange market in the near-term. Moreover, the bilateral flows would close the financing gap for FY19. These positive developments will build FX reserves in the coming months.

On recent changes in monetary policy, the Board was of the view that the stance is appropriate at current levels given the projections for inflation in FY19 and FY20. The real interest rates are significantly positive and would help manage aggregate demand and reduce output gap closer to sustainable levels. Going forward, the Board expects that the Monetary Policy Committee would continue to make data-driven decisions based on macroeconomic fundamentals.

Public Expenditure and Financial Accountability (PEFA) launching ceremony held

Public Expenditure and Financial Accountability (PEFA) launching ceremony was held here. PEFA, it may be added is a tool for assessing the status of public financial management. 

Mr. Kamran Ali Afzal, Additional Secretary, External Finance on the occasion warmly welcomed the World Bank (WB) and DFID team who graced the occasion. He said that Government recognizes the importance of sound financial management including budgets and expenditure and enjoys an enhanced level of responsibility for accountability. Therefore, PEFA assessment is very much in line with the reform agenda of government, and that the findings and recommendations coming out PEFA assessment will be received well. Ministry of Finance will consider recommendations for improvement of public financial management. Other Government functionaries that are assessed by PEFA will also be pleased being assessed by professionals on a worldwide accepted framework. Mr Afzal added that Mr. Javed Iqbal Khan, Joint Secretary Budget Implementation has been nominated as Lead Focal Person by Finance Ministry for coordination.

Mr. Shabih Ali Mohib, Program Leader World Bank, reciprocated the welcoming gesture which was followed by a detailed presentation by Mr. John Ogallo, senior financial management specialist. Mr. Ogallo provided an overview of the PEFA methodology and identified the period, Fiscal Years 2015/16 – 2017/18, which the report will cover. The PEFA is being led by the World Bank with support from the EU and DFID.  This will be the first PEFA conducted at the Federal level and in the Provinces of Punjab and Sindh since 2012 the report is scheduled to be completed during 2019. The assessment identifies strengths and weaknesses within PFM systems allowing for reform efforts to be better targeted.

Finance Minister chaired the meetings with SECP and SBP

Finance Minister Asad Umar here on Wednesday chaired focused meetings with SECP and SBP to review progress made by the regulators on FATF Action Plan.
 
The meeting was attended by Executive Directors from SBP and SECP, DG-FMU, Legal Adviser-FMU and other senior officials.

During the meeting, SBP and SECP gave a detailed presentation on the progress on actions taken by them towards implementation of FATF Action Plan. The Finance Minister desired ensure that the internal action plans with specific timelines on implementation of FATF Action Plan should be put in place immediately and shared with FMU so that all FATF Action Plan items are completed within the agreed time lines. 

The Finance Minister also asked them to not only complete actions due in January 2019 but also focus on actions due in May and September 2019 as they would be required to update FATF on work being done to meet those timelines.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC)

The meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet was held here Tuesday. Finance Minister Asad Umar chaired the meeting. 

On a proposal of Ministry of Commerce, relating to export of sugar, the ECC approved waiving off of the condition related to start of crushing on 15th of November. The Committee observed that the matter relating to freight support etc for exports fall in the domain of the respective provincial governments. With regard to the outstanding claims for the previous years, the committee directed Finance Division to release the budgeted amounts.  

ECC allowed allocation of up to 30 MMCFD gas from Zafir field, distt Sanghar, to M/s Sui Southern Gas Company Ltd (SSGCL).

ECC also considered proposal from Ministry of Energy (Petroleum Division) for allocation of 66 MMCFD Mari Deep Gas to MPCL and approved the same. The Committee sought further proposals on the utilization of the gas for power generation or production of fertilizer.  
               
ECC recommended to the Cabinet a case for supplementary grant of Rs. 1.80 billion for agriculture tube well subsidy as proposed by Ministry of Energy (Power Division).

The ECC discussed a report submitted by Ministry of Industries & Production on measures to ensure availability of Urea fertilizer in the country and the possible impact on the price of urea owing to use of RLNG due to shortage of system gas in winter.

The Committee in the end expressed its deep appreciation for the Power Division for having initiated a  successful drive for reduction of losses  and improvement of recoveries.

KCCI delegation met with Finance Minister

Finance Minister, Asad Umar had a meeting with the delegation of Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industries (KCCI) here on Tuesday. Federal Minister for Petroleum, Ghulam Sarwar Khan and Minister of state for Revenue, Hammad Azhar were also present on the occasion.

The delegation shared with the Minister their concern that supply of gas to different industries in the metropolis might suffer interruption as they had been served notices regarding gas load management for next three months. They also had discussion with the Finance Minister on their tax related issues.
Minister for Petroleum assured that the delegation’s concern on disruption of gas will be duly addressed. 

Petroleum Prices for the month of December 2018

The government has decided to reduce the prices of petroleum products by Rs.2 per litre, each for Petrol and Diesel. The prices of Kerosene and LDO will be reduced by Rs. 3 & Rs.5 per litre respectively. Prices for the month of December shall therefore be as under:

These prices shall be applicable from 1st of December 2018 to 31st December 2018.

It may be added that OGRA works out the petroleum prices for a month on the basis of the prices of cargoes purchased for that particular month. The prices for December 2018 are accordingly based on the purchases made during the period from 10 October to 12 November, 2018. The average price of these cargoes remained $76.68/BBL for Petrol and $86.61 for HSD.
 
The government has substantially reduced the taxes/levies on petroleum products during the period September- November, 2018. During the month of November sales tax on MS Petrol and HS Diesel was 4.5% and 12% respectively, compared to 15% and 27.5% in May 2018, which means a reduction of 10.5% and 15.5% respectively. Similarly petroleum levy on MS Petrol and HS Diesel which was Rs.10 and Rs.8 per liter in May has been reduced to Rs.6.15 and Rs.6.51 respectively.  

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC)

Finance Minister Asad Umar chaired meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC) here Friday.

ECC approved the proposal of Ministry of National Food Security and Research for provision of 40,000 metric tons of wheat to Afghanistan as a gift. 

ECC also considered and approved a proposal from the Finance Division for provision of funds amounting to US$ 82.6 million as grant to Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPA) for disbursement to 320,000 BISP beneficiaries, helping them graduate out of poverty. It may be added that Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF) had devised the “National Poverty Graduation Programme” (NPGP). The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) agreed to provide a loan amounting to US $82.6 million to Government of Pakistan for NPGP on concessional rates.  A Project Financing Agreement with IFAD in this regard was also signed. As per agreement, Government shall make the loan proceeds available as grant of PPAF for poverty graduation of BISP beneficiaries.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of Monetary & Fiscal Policies Co-ordination Board

Finance Minister Asad Umar has said the Government is committed to improving the fundamentals of economy and achieving sustainable and balanced economic growth.

The Minister stated this while chairing meeting of the Monetary and Fiscal Policies Co-ordination Board here on Thursday.

Secretary Finance gave a detailed presentation to the meeting on the economic and fiscal situation. The meeting was informed that external balance has improved in the first four months of current fiscal year as current account contracted by 4.6 percent due to significant increase in worker’s remittances, containment in imports and increase in export growth. Fiscal consolidation remained a challenge during the first quarter as fiscal deficit increased to 1.4 percent as compared to 1.2 percent of the comparable period last year. FBR revenue continued to increase by 6.4 percent and if gains traction it may bridge up the fiscal deficit going forward. Headline inflation is increasing on the back of non food inflation above 8 percent, whereas, food inflation is rising moderately by 2.7 percent on account of smooth supply of commodities in the market and better price monitoring system.

The Secretary also briefed the meeting about the economic reforms which the Economic Advisory Council has approved. The meeting also discussed the export credit facility offered by Saudi Arabia envisaging the purchase of crude oil and or other petroleum product (s) of up to USD 3.24 billion per annum on a 12 month deferred payment basis.

Governor State Bank discussed monetary aggregates along with views on the economy. Broad money (M2) witnessed a rise of Rs.35 billion from July 2018 to 16th November 2018 as compared to decrease of Rs.67 billion in the same period last year which is entirely contributed by Net Domestic Assets (NDA) of the banking system as Net Foreign Assets (NFA) continued to contract. Despite rising interest rate overall private sector credit remained higher than last year. The government borrowed Rs.2,859 billion from SBP but on the other hand retired Rs.2,619 billion to scheduled banks. While, net government borrowing from the banking system reached Rs.186.5 billion compared to Rs.383.5 billion over the previous year. The private sector credit increased to Rs.304 billion during the period as compared to Rs.69 billion last year. Expansion is seen largely in working capital followed by fixed investments.

Giving his concluding remarks, Finance Minister said that the decline in LSM sector needed to be studied by disaggregating the data so that appropriate measures could be taken to address the same. He also directed Finance Division to earnestly complete integrated policy paper focusing on economic strategy over the medium term.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC)

Finance Minister Asad Umar chaired meeting of Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC) here on Tuesday.

ECC was given a presentation by Secretary Petroleum Division on Winter Gas Load Management Plan. ECC decided that there will be no gas load shedding this winter. ECC allowed SNGPL to utilize RLNG in the system for consumption by domestic and commercial consumers, to manage the load. The gas utilities will be allowed volumetric adjustment and financial impact on cost neutral basis in accordance with the ECC’s decision of 11th May 2018. The ECC also decided that the recent increase in gas prices will not be applicable for Roti Tandoors, and they will continue to pay their gas bills on the previously applicable rates. The decision has been taken in view of the concerns that the increase in gas prices was leading to increase in the prices of tandoori roti and naan. 

ECC also approved government guarantee to National Power Parks Management Company (Pvt) Ltd (NPPMCL) to raise loan of Rs. 38.00 billion from financial institutions to meet remaining cost of its two power plants.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC)

The meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC) was held here Thursday. Finance Minister Asad Umar chaired the meeting.

ECC in consideration of the proposal from Ministry of Industries and Production approved a grant of Rs. 1,066.078 million for payment of outstanding dues (provident fund, gratuity and payroll dues) to families of deceased employees of Pakistan Steel Mills.

ECC discussed the proposal submitted by Ministry of Commerce & Textile to allow import of cotton from Afghanistan/Central Asian states via the land route through the Torkham Border. The Committee accorded approval for the import with the condition that all sanitary and phytosanitary regulations shall be abided. ECC also directed the relevant ministries to engage with the industry for establishment of a permanent quarantine facility for cotton imported through land route. 

Secretary Ministry of National Food Security shared with the meeting a report on value chain of sugar. The ECC took note of the issue of pending payments to sugarcane growers as well as difficulties faced by the millers in view of surplus stocks, possibility of their export and redressal of liquidity issues. The Committee directed Minister of National Food Security and Adviser Industries to hold meeting with the Pakistan Sugar Mills Association (PSMA), and resolve these issues.

ECC accorded approval for sale of 200,000 tons of wheat from the surplus stocks available with PASSCO to Poultry Association of Pakistan (PPA).

ECC also had deliberations on the proposed plan of Ministry of Energy for gas load management during winter season and decided to have further discussions in the matter at the next meeting to finalize the plan.

Finance Minister chaired the concluding session with IMF Mission

An IMF mission, led by Mr. Harald Finger, visited Pakistan from 7thto 20th November 2018.

During this period, extensive talks were held between key ministries of the Government of Pakistan, including the Ministries of Finance, Planning, Development & Reform, and Energy, the State Bank of Pakistan, and the IMF Mission. These discussions covered all sectors of the economy. Members of Parliament and provincial finance ministries also exchanged views with the Mission.

The Federal Minister for Finance, Mr. Asad Umar, chaired the concluding session with Mission today.
Substantive progress has been made by the Government of Pakistan and the IMF Mission towards developing a common understanding on the policy and structural reforms framework for the prospective IMF programme, including fiscal and monetary measures, corrective interventions for balance of payments sustainability, pro-poor spending, governance and development of a business-friendly environment.

The positive engagement with the IMF will continue over the coming weeks to finalise the programme with the Fund.

Finance Minister chaired a meeting of Economic Coordination Committee (ECC)

The meeting of Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC) was held here on Tuesday. Finance Minister Asad Umar Chaired the meeting.

ECC discussed the proposal submitted by the Ministry of National Food Security & Research regarding export of surplus wheat/products as requested by   Provincial Governments of Punjab and Sindh and PASSCO.

The Committee granted approval for export of 0.5 million tons of wheat by PASSCO and both provincial governments. It was decided that any financial support for freight etc. requested for the purpose will be provided by the respective provincial governments. Federal Government will pick up such costs in the case of PASSCO only.

Further, a committee comprising senior officials from Commerce, Finance and Food Security will review the situation in two week’s time and make recommendation for further exports, if required.

Finance Minister urged EAC sub-groups to expedite recommendations

Finance Minister, Mr. Asad Umar, chaired a meeting on Economic Advisory Council’s (EAC) Sub-Groups on “National Financial Inclusion Strategy (NFIS)” and “Fiscal Sector” here at the Ministry of Finance. Meeting was attended by all major stakeholders/ members of the sub-group from Ministry of Finance, State Bank of Pakistan, Federal Board of Revenue and Security and Exchange Commission of Pakistan.

Governor State Bank of Pakistan, Mr. Tariq Bajwa, presented National Financial Inclusion Strategy to improve quality and increase access to financial services in Pakistan. He outlined targets and necessitating policy actions to be taken at various levels in coming years to achieve the targets. Discussion revolved around fast-tracking the digitization of financial services to reach out larger number of consumers, small and medium business and newly emerging entrepreneurs throughout country. Finance Minister appreciated the Financial Inclusion Strategy and emphasized on diligently time-lining the goals, targets and actions to be taken, and cautioned against delaying the implementation process of the strategy.

Finance Minister met with the delegation of Pakistan Britain, Scotland Business Councils

Finance Minister, Asad Umar received a delegation of Pakistan Britain Business Council (PBBC) and its sister organization, Pakistan Scotland Business Council (PSBC) led by Mr. Julian Hamilton Barns and Mr. Rashid Iqbal here Friday.

The delegation briefed the Minister about the Councils’ plans for investment and financing different projects in Pakistan including health, financial sector and other areas. The delegation especially shared with the Minister the proposal regarding establishment of a network of hospitals across Pakistan aimed at providing quality healthcare to the people. The Council could muster financial support from Pakistani diaspora, international financiers, philanthropists and other financing institutions towards this end, the delegation said. The delegation also apprised the Minister about the Councils' interaction with the Pakistan diaspora in UK and in other countries and said they were especially keen to invest in Pakistan.

Finance Minister welcomed the initiative by the Councils and assured of all possible support from the government. He asked the delegation for a formal proposal in this regard which could serve as the basis for developing future cooperation. He said the present government highly appreciated such initiatives and had a resolve to facilitate international investors in every possible manner.

Meanwhile the Finance Minister also met a delegation of the FPCCI, KP led by Mr. Ghazanfar Bilour.

Finance Minister chaired a meeting of Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC)

Finance Minister Asad Umar chaired meeting of the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) here on Wednesday.

The meeting approved development projects in various areas of the country.

ECNEC discussed and accorded approval of the project for evacuation of power from hydro power projects of Suki Kinari, distt Mansehra in KP, Kohala distt. Muzaffarabad and Mahal, distt. Bagh in AJK at a cost of Rs.79,929.73 million. The main objective of the project is construction of 500 kV transmission network to provide interconnection facilities for evacuation of electricity from the above mentioned projects being constructed under CPEC. 

ECNEC discussed and approved Sind Solar Energy Project (SSEP) at a cost of Rs. 12,848.11 million. The project aims to support the scale up of solar power in Sindh province and increase access to electricity. The project will also improve energy security and fulfill Pakistan’s international commitments on climate change.

ECNEC also directed the Power Division to come up with a report covering all facets relating to power production, its effective evacuation/transmission and distribution. The report ECNEC observed would help set a direction for undertaking power projects in future.

The meeting approved rehabilitation project of Dargai hydroelectric power station, Malakand, KP at a cost Rs. 4,050.364 million. Completion of the project will help enhance the capacity of the power station to 22 MW.

The meeting considered proposal from the Ministry of Water Resources to include Tangir Hydropower in the Diamer Basha Dam project and approved the revised cost of the project at Rs. 479.686 billion.

The meeting discussed and approved Baluchistan Water Resource Development Project (Zhob and Mula river basins) at a cost of Rs. 16,453.40 million. The project will benefit districts of Muslim Bagh, Qila Saifullah, Zhob, Khuzdar, Jhal Magsi and part of Kalat in the Baluchistan province.

Finance Minister held a meeting with the visiting IMF mission

The Finance Minister Asad Umar held a meeting with the visiting IMF mission led by Mr. Harald Finger here Tuesday. 

The Mission leader shared his initial assessment with the Finance Minister on various sectors of the economy, following the delegation's interaction with officials of relevant ministries and entities.
 
The Finance Minister shared with the delegation, PTI government’s vision on economy. He referred to the corrective measures being taken to remove imbalances in the economy and said that the new government had come to power with an agenda of wide ranging reforms. He said that the Government has a strong resolve for implementing deep structural and institutional reforms. It is committed to safeguarding the poor and vulnerable segments of the society and shall  invest more in social protection, human development and creating employment opportunities, The Minister added. Along-with structural and governance reforms, revival of domestic industry and export sector are high priorities of the Government. He said Pakistan looked forward to receiving IMF support for government’s efforts aimed at achieving an economic turnaround.

The Mission will continue its discussions with the relevant authorities during the next several days.

Finance Minister chaired a meeting of ECC

Finance Minister Asad Umar chaired meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet here Monday.

 The Secretary Petroleum Division briefed the ECC about the gas supply situation on SSGCL network. The ECC was informed that the supply of gas to zero rated industry (process + captive)under SSGCL system, covering Sindh and Baluchistan provinces would continue during the winter season, in accordance with recently approved gas supply priority for this sector. The ECC directed the SSGCL management to withdraw the gas load management notices issued to these industries. Likewise there would be no gas load management for domestic consumers.      

On another proposal of the Ministry of Energy (Petroleum Division), the ECC approved provision of 12 MMCFD gas to SNGPL from Dhok Hussain gas field and also accorded approval for provision of 10 MMCFD gas to SSGCL from Bitrism gas field. 

The ECC considered and approved the proposal of the Ministry of Energy (Power Division), for raising fresh financing of Rs. 35.806 billion through a syndicate of banks for PHPL. 

Chairman PIAC briefed the meeting about current operational and financial position of the organisation. The ECC directed the management to improve the business model of the company and to devise a strategic plan for solution to its financial and administrative problems on long term basis. The Committee approved the proposal for issuance of government guarantees of raising Rs. 17.022 billion for the immediate requirements of PIAC. 

Finance Minister chaired a meeting of ECC

Finance Minister Asad Umar chaired meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC) here Wednesday.

The ECC considered the proposals of Ministry of National Food Security & Research regarding the support /procurement price of wheat for the crop 2018-19 and decided to maintain the wheat support price at the current level of Rs.1300/- per 40 KG. It was noted that the wheat prices in the international market were considerably lower and the government of Pakistan was incurring a huge expenditure in the wheat procurement process, to protect the interests of the farmers.   

The ECC approved the proposal of the Privatization Division for disbursement of Rs. 367 million as one month’s salary (September 2018) to the employees of Pakistan Steel Mills (PSM). The ECC also directed the Ministry of Industries to take immediate action for disbursement of outstanding dues to widows of PSM's deceased employees which have been pending for the last almost four years.  ECC also directed that since PSM had been excluded from the privatization list, the Ministry of Industries and Production should on priority, submit a detailed proposal to the ECC for PSM's operationalization. 

On another proposal from the Ministry of National Food Security, the ECC allowed import of 50,000 tons of urea fertilizer to meet requirements of farmers in Rabi season 2018-19. The Committee also authrorized the Advisor to the Prime Minister on Commerce & Industries to allow import of an additional quantity of 50,000 tons, if required. Further, the ECC also directed that fertilizer plants may be kept fully operational for whole of Rabi season for adequate production of urea and prevent its shortage. The ECC maintained that no undue increase in prices of urea will be tolerated on the pretext of increase in gas prices.

ECC also approved proposal of the Ministry of Food Security, for enhancing Pakistan’s share of wheat for the SAARC Food Bank Reserve from 40,000 tons to 80,000 tons, adjusting it in the existing quantum of one million metric tons of national strategic reserves assigned to PASSCO. 
         
 The Chairman FBR briefed the meeting on  tax collection from the sugar industry. He suggested that a revised mechanism be put in place to ensure that the full amount of due taxes are recovered from the industry. The ECC directed FBR to place the matter before the Cabinet after consulting the stakeholders within one week.

The ECC directed the Power Division to actively engage with companies / entities concerned to facilitate clearance of PSO’s outstanding receivables (over Rs. 300 billion) as early as possible to guard against any risk of disruption in supply chain of petroleum products and energy supply.

Pakistan Prime Minister's visit to China from 2nd to 5th November, 2018

Pakistan Prime Minister’s visit to China from 2nd to 5th November, 2018 has moved the overall economic relationship between the two friendly countries to the next level. During the visit several avenues of mutually beneficial collaboration were identified and a number of Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) were signed between the two sides in the sphere of economic cooperation. These included agreements in the area of socio-economic development, poverty alleviation, agriculture, economic and technical cooperation, forestry, earth sciences, higher education and technology.

The two sides noted with satisfaction that CPEC’s first stage, which comprised of infrastructure and energy sector improvements, has almost been completed. It was decided that the next stage of CPEC will focus on industrial expansion, agricultural revitalization and trade integration of the two economies. This phase will help the Government of Pakistan in achieving its objectives of job creation and export growth.

The two sides also held discussions on immediate market access for Pakistan’s exports as well as balance of payments support. The top Chinese leadership expressed their strong support and a Task Force was established by both sides to discuss the matters further. In this connection, a senior level delegation comprising of Federal Secretaries of Finance, Foreign Affairs, Planning & Development and Commerce along with the Governor, State Bank of Pakistan will undertake a visit to China during the current week to work out the modalities with the Chinese authorities in their respective areas.

Petroleum Prices for the month of November 2018

The Government has decided to absorb the substantial impact of increase in the prices of petroleum products and only partially pass on the increase to the consumers for the month of November. The decision has been taken to minimize the burden on the public at large.
         
Based on the international prices, the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA), had worked out an increase of Rs. 9.02 per litre in the price of MS (Petrol). However, an increase of Rs. 5.0 only has been allowed by the Government. Likewise as against the recommended increase of Rs. 13.22 per liter in the price of High Speed Diesel (HSD), an increase of Rs. 6.37 has been approved.  For Kerosene Oil (SKO) the recommended increase was Rs 6.47 per litre but the Government allowed an increase of Rs.3.0 per litre only. As for Light Diesel Oil (LDO), the recommended increase of Rs.6.48 has been approved as the tax/levy on this product is already quite negligible.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of Fiscal Coordination Committee (FCC)

Finance Minister Asad Umar chaired the meeting of Fiscal Coordination Committee (FCC) here Wednesday.

Chief Minister of Sindh and Finance Ministers/senior officials of Punjab, KP and Baluchistan attended the meeting.

The meeting reviewed the bi-annual implementation of the NFC Award for the period July-December, 2016, January-June, 2017 and July-December, 2017. The reports were approved for presentation to the Parliament and Provincial Assemblies.

The meeting was briefed by the Ministry of Finance regarding the fiscal consolidation program of the Federal Government. Provincial Finance Ministers assured the Federal Government of their full support for the fiscal consolidation efforts as it was need of the hour. Governor State Bank was assigned the task to chalk-out a simplified procedure in this regard.

Matters relating to provincial surpluses were also discussed. The provincial governments expressed their support and cooperation in this realm.

The meeting also reviewed the Federal Government Public Financial Management (PFM)Program which was being run with the help of World Bank. It was agreed to constitute a Sub-Committee and Technical Committees to review various actionable items in the PFM Program. It was agreed that provincial governments will provide names of their representatives for the Sub-Committee as well as Technical Committees.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of Cabinet Committee on Privatization (CCOP)

Finance Minister Asad Umar chaired meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Privatization (CCOP) here Wednesday.

The Secretary Privatization Commission made a detailed presentation to the Committee on the Privatization Program pursued by the government over the last two decades. The Committee discussed the objectives and rationale of the Privatization Program. It was noted that only one entity was privatized during the last five years, apart from divestment of shares in a few already privatized entities.  

The Committee gave the go-ahead to Privatization Division to undertake the process for privatization of newly established 1233 MW Balloki Power Plant and the 1230 MW Haveli Bahadur Power Plant. 

The CCOP also approved the proposal for privatization of the following entities: 

(i)              SME Bank Ltd
(ii)             First Women Bank Ltd
(iii)            Jinnah Convention Centre, Islamabad
(iv)            Lakhra Coal Mines (now Lakhra Coal Development Company)
(v)             Services International Hotel, Lahore

The Committee noted that the listing of a large number of entities on the privatization list for more than a decade had been detrimental to their operations as these were neither privatised nor any serious effort was undertaken to revitalize them. After detailed deliberations, it was decided to delist Pakistan Steel Mills, PIA, Pakistan Railways, Utility Stores Corporation, NHA and CAA from the Privatization list.  Ministry of Industries was directed to put up an action plan for operationalization of Pakistan Steel Mills within 45 days. Similar instructions for improvement and revitalization of other entities were given to the relevant ministries. In the case of CAA it was noted that the Authority performed a regulatory function and could not be privatized. 

The Committee also directed the Ministry of Industries to carry out a detailed review of all the entities in its purview, and make recommendations for their revival or privatization. Ministry of Commerce was similarly directed to review the insurance/ reinsurance sector and make recommendations. 

In the case of gas sector utilities the CCOP decided that privatization of these entities should could not be undertaken before putting in place a regulatory regime to create competitive market place. The Committee directed the Ministry of Petroleum to take necessary action in that regard. 

Regarding financial institutions it was decided to delist National Bank of Pakistan. Delisting of IDBP was also approved as the process for its winding up was already underway. In case of HBFC and NITL, Ministry of Finance was directed to submit recommendations for their retention or removal from the privatization list.

The Committee also decided not to privatize the Printing Corporattion of Pakistan and Trading Corporation of Pakistan. However the relevant ministries were directed to submit proposals for improvement in their working along with plan for disposal of their non-essential fixed assets. 

The Committee also directed the Privatization Commission to ensure complete transparency in all its transactions. 

The Finance Minister maintained that the process of divestment was meant to encourage and attract private sector partnership to turn around ailing PSEs by injecting capital, modernizing through technological upgradation besides introducing best corporate practices.

Appointment of Chairperson, BISP

The Federal Government had invited Dr. Sania Nishtar, Pakistan’s internationally acclaimed global health expert, to chair the Board of the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP). Following her acceptance, the Government has made the appointment.

Dr. Nishtar is a well-respected apolitical professional, civil society leader and former cabinet minister. She is also a widely published scholar in the field of public healthcare systems and reform.

Poverty alleviation and provision of social protection to marginalised groups, especially in the less developed areas of the country, is amongst the highest priorities of the Government. Dr. Nishtar’s appointment, in fact, reflects the Government’s commitment to achieve this policy objective by depoliticising BISP and providing it professional leadership.

BISP has recently outlined its plans for a comprehensive social protection strategy aimed at protecting the poorest of the poor from economic shocks. Under Dr. Nishtar’s stewardship, BISP is expected to further deepen its interventions and also make them more transparent through innovative targeting approaches for the most disadvantaged segments of society.

Meeting reviewed progress on FATF Action Plan, APG assessment

Finance Minister, Asad Umar chaired a meeting here Saturday to review progress on FATF Action Plan and APG assessment. 

Director General Financial Monitoring Unit (FMU) briefed the Minister about the actions taken so far on both FATF Action plan and APG assessment.

The Minister emphasized the need to enhance level of institutional coordination to ensure timely accomplishment of FATF action plan. He also desired appropriate and complete responses to APG's follow-up queries. Further it was agreed to develop an effective monitoring mechanism to ensure that all concerned stakeholders complete the assigned tasks within delegated timelines. 

The Minister directed that all stakeholders may be advised to develop internal actions plans which shall be monitored on a fortnightly basis.

Senior officials of the Ministry of Finance and other relevant stakeholders attended the meeting.

Finance Minister chaired a meeting of ECC

The ECC in its meeting chaired by Finance Minister, Asad Umar on Monday considered the proposal for electricity tariff rationalization, submitted by the Ministry of Power and directed the concerned officials to submit a detailed plan for improvements in the power sector, especially measures to increase recoveries and reduction of losses, before the proposed tariff rationalization plan could be approved. The ECC would meet again on Wednesday, to consider the above mentioned plan and tariff rationalization proposals. 

The Auditor General, shared with the ECC a report on audit findings pertaining to financial and operational issues in the four Power Distribution Companies i.e. HESCO, PESCO, QESCO and SEPCO in the years 2016-17 and 2017-18. The report highlighted significant areas of the distribution system responsible for line and commercial losses. The  chair directed Ministry of Power to take remedial measures on the issues raised in the report.

Finance Division implemented E-Office program

In order to ensure efficiency and improved performance by officers at all levels, Finance Division has implemented E-Office program in line with government’s priorities and policies. There are nearly 250 users in various wings for the E-office suite.

Mr. Arif Ahmad Khan, Secretary Finance inaugurated the e-office system in Ministry of Finance on Wednesday. Addressing senior and middle management level officers on the occasion, he called upon them to master e-office skills and benefit from the automated system.  He also stressed complete digitization of records on priority basis. He added that implementation of the program shall facilitate institutional reforms and help improve performance.

He appreciated the contribution of the National Information Technology Board (NITB) and the Finance Ministry’s team led by Mr. Javed Iqbal Khan, Joint Secretary (BI) for taking on the challenge of training a large number of officials in a short span of time. He hoped that the implementation of the E-office program at Finance Division will serve as a good example for other divisions to follow.

Special Secretary Finance chaired the meeting of National Price Monitoring Committee

The meeting of National Price Monitoring Committee was held on Wednesday at the Finance Division. Special Secretary Finance chaired the meeting.

The chairman informed the forum that there is lot of flux that characterizes the world economy at present, emerging markets are facing uncertainty. Their currencies have devalued significantly. The Federal Reserve is raising interest rate. After seeing a decade long zero rate it has surged 2.5 percent which is pushing dollar relative to other currencies. Oil prices have crossed $85 barrel and are estimated to hit $90.The rising inflation is a challenge. He urged the provincial governments that they should adhere to strict price monitoring and remain vigilant that no supply disruption of commodities in the markets takes place.

The main reason for the rise is increase in international crude oil prices. A combination of factors such as strong domestic demand, which is also visible from pressure on external and fiscal side, possible lagged impact of recent upward adjustment in gas prices, exchange rate depreciation  are contributing to recent pickup in inflation.

The meeting was informed that CPI increased by 5.60 percent during Jul-September FY 2019 compared to 3.39 percent of the same period last year.The Core inflation increased by 8.0 percent in September 2018 as compared to 5.4 percent in the comparable month of last year. The trend is alarming and signals of rising inflation in coming months.

The committee observed the rising SPI trend over the last six weeks. The Weekly SPI which monitors the price movement of 53 essential items recorded an increase of 3.65 percent on 11th October, 2018. The significant impact came from increase in gas prices by 15.45 percent over previous week.

The meeting also reviewed the prices of essential items in sasta bazaars and open markets and noted that the prices are significantly lower in sasta bazaars as compared to open markets.

The Chair emphasized that in case if the provincial governments and other stakeholders see any shortage of essential consumer items they should immediately report to the NPMC committee so that the federal government takes appropriate measures. He also asked the Competition Commission of Pakistan to remain vigilant that no cartelization takes place.

In view of difficult times ahead the meeting decided as under:-

• The Provincial Governments will fully activate price monitoring and control mechanism at district level and below to ensure price stability.
• The Provincial Governments and Federal Government will ensure adequate supply of commodities to avoid supply disruption and consequent price hike.
• The District Government will launch a campaign as and when necessary to stop hoarding of commodities for price manipulation. 
• In case of any expected shortfall in production of agriculture commodities, the relevant forum will be intimated for taking necessary action.
• The provinces should focus on oilseed crops and pulses cultivation to reduce the import bill.
  It was also emphasized that Provincial Governments and ICT administration to extend the coverage of sasta/itwar bazaars so that common man may get the commodities at reasonable price.

Finance Minister chaired a meeting of ECC

Finance Minister, Asad Umar chaired meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC) here Tuesday.

The ECC approved mechanism to ensure enhanced supply of domestic gas to the five zero rated sectors of the industry. It was decided that these sectors would be given priority in allocation of gas, at par with the power sector. These industries would be supplied RLNG during the three winter months when the gas demand of domestic sector would be at its peak. During the remaining months (March-November), these industries would be supplied domestic gas & RLNG on a 50:50 basis.

The meeting was also given a briefing on the LNG terminals’ agreements signed during the previous government. The ECC decided that facts ascertained after discussion will be shared with the federal cabinet in its next meeting.

ECC lauded provincial governments in KP and Punjab on presenting very prudent and forward looking budgets.

Finance Minister held a number of meetings on the sidelines of the World Bank/IMF Group Annual meetings in Bali, Indonesia

Finance Minister, Asad Umar held a number of meetings on the sidelines of the World Bank/IMF Group Annual meetings in Bali, Indonesia on Wednesday.

Finance Minister met with his Indonesian counterpart Sri Mulyani Indrawati and discussed matters pertaining to expansion of bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

Finance Minister Umar emphasized expanding Pak-Indonesia trade relations. The Minister in this regard called upon the Indonesian side to expedite the process of ratification of the additional tariff lines granted to Pakistan after comprehensive review of the PTA in 2017.

Congratulating the Finance Minister on assuming the office after recent elections in Pakistan, Sri Mulyani Indrawati reaffirmed Indonesia’s desire to expand bilateral relations and assured her support to address the points raised by the Pakistan side.

Finance Minister, Asad Umar later had a meeting with the President of World Bank, Dr. Jim Yong Kim. During the meeting the current level of Pak-World Bank cooperation was reviewed. The Finance Minister shared with the World Bank leader, the vision of the new government and its priorities. 

The Minister also had meetings with senior officials of Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) and OECD. 

Government has decided to approach the IMF for stabilisation and an economic recovery program

Immediately upon assuming office, the present Government had expressed serious concerns on the dire economic situation of the country and had committed to undertake a quick evaluation of all possible options. The Government inherited 6.6% of fiscal deficit, more than a trillion Rupees of unaccounted for losses in the energy sector and an unprecedented and debilitating current account deficit running at $2 billion a month. To correct the underlying imbalances, fiscal and monetary actions needed to be undertaken without delay. In this regard, the Finance supplementary (Amendment) Act, 2018 by the government and the policy rate increases by the State Bank of Pakistan are actions taken to stabilise the macroeconomic situation. In addition, regulatory duties on non-essential imports have had to be introduced to curb the unnecessary growth in imports.

After taking into account the current situation and consultation with the leading economists, the government has decided to approach the IMF for stabilisation and an economic recovery program. It should be noted that the government has engaged with the friendly countries in the lead up to this decision and this engagement will continue.

IMF delegation's visit

An IMF mission led by Mr. Harald Finger visited Pakistan from September 27th, to October 4th, 2018. The Mission met key stakeholders within the Government of Pakistan and exchanged views on all sectors of economy. Upon conclusion of its visit, the Mission held a wrap up meeting with the Finance Minister and his team, sharing its initial assessment of the economy.

The Mission in its evaluation has highlighted the imminent challenges facing Pakistan's economy including fiscal deficit, current account deficit, low level of reserves, accumulation of losses in public sector enterprises, non-execution of structural reforms, weakening of institutions and lack of domestic resource mobilization. Corrective measures recently taken by the Government of Pakistan in the Mission's view are steps in the right direction. The visiting team was of the view that further actions are required to be undertaken to correct imbalances in the economy and put it on a path of sustainable growth.

The Government of Pakistan largely shares this assessment of the economy and is committed to take further corrective measures to restore stability and inclusive growth. As also acknowledged by the Mission, the Government has inherited a fragile economy since critical economic decisions were delayed by the previous government in an election year. Prompt decisions on monetary, exchange rate and fiscal policies could have averted the economic downturn that Pakistan is facing today.

Going forward the Government of Pakistan is committed to take decisive corrective adjustments to restore the economy on a path of stability and growth. The Government is of the view that fiscal and price adjustments alone are not sufficient, and that unless the much delayed deep structural and institutional reforms are implemented with firm and unflinching resolve, the entrenched imbalances plaguing the economy will keep resurfacing.

Finance Ministry seeks early nominations of NFC members from provinces

The Finance Ministry has called upon provincial governments to reconfirm their nominations of non-statutory members for National Finance Commission as early as possible.

It may be recalled that Finance Minister Asad Umar had addressed letters to the provincial Chief Ministers on September 3, 2018 asking them to either re-confirm the nominations made by the previous governments or make fresh nominations so that the process for reconstitution of 9th NFC could be completed. The Ministry of Finance has now reminded the provincial finance secretaries to make the requisite nominations, as so far none of the provincial governments have shared the names of their respective non-statutory members. 

Finance Minister met with Vice President, Asian Development Bank (ADB)

Finance Minister, Asad Umar received the visiting Vice President, Asian Development Bank (ADB), Wencai Zhang for a meeting here Thursday.

They had a brief review of the ongoing and prospective ADB assisted projects in Pakistan.

The Finance Minister on the occasion said that the present Government has embarked upon a journey of structural reforms with particular emphasis on the energy structure. He spelled out the priority areas of the PTI Government which include job creation, competitiveness of the export sector through industrial development, skill  development and promotion of the SME and IT sectors. He also emphasized development of the tourism and hospitality sectors in Pakistan. He welcomed offer made by the ADB to support capacity development in various govt. institutions including Ministry of Finance through technical assistance. 

Mr. Wencai Chang said that ADB and Pakistan have together successfully met many development challenges. ADB, he said is committed to expanding this partnership to increase prosperity of the people of Pakistan. He assured the Minister of the support from the Bank in the priority sectors as identified by the present government.

Finance Minister chaired a meeting of Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet

At the outset, the consideration of proposal regarding tariff rationalization for power sector was deferred on the request from the Finance and Power Divisions who asked for further time to deliberate the proposed revisions.

ECC approved, after detailed discussion, the proposal from the Commerce Division for export of one million metric ton (1-MMT) surplus sugar. No freight or financial support will be provided to millers/exporters by the Federal/Provincial Governments in this regard. Only those Sugar Mills will be allowed to export sugar which have paid arrears to farmers for all the crops up to 2017-18. Moreover an inter-ministerial committee will have fortnightly meetings to review sugar stock, export and price situation. 

On another proposal of Ministry of Commerce, the ECC accorded approval for revision of cess rates of tobacco for the year 2018-19 as determined by the Pakistan Tobacco Board. It may be added that prices of various types of tobacco are fixed every year and cess rates are also revised. 

In consideration of proposal submitted by the Ministry of Privatization, ECC approved disbursement of Rs. 375 million on account of net salary for the employees of Pakistan Steel Mill for the month of August 2018.

ECC directed immediate formation of special committee comprising representatives from Finance, Power Division, Auditor General of Pakistan, Ministry of Petroleum, FBR to address various issues relating to transfer of shares of K-Electric. It may be mentioned ECC earlier on 3rd September had directed Privatization Division to deliberate upon the issues relating to the sale of K-Electric in consultation with Petroleum and Power Divisions. In order to further facilitate resolution of various issues, formation of the special committee has now been ordered.

ECC was given a detailed briefing by Ministry of Petroleum relating to the LNG Terminals. The Committee directed Ministry of Law to examine the legal agreements relating to the terminals to see whether the government could revisit the terms and conditions contained therein.
   
ECC taking notice of the sudden hike in cement price directed the Adviser on Industries to have meeting with representatives of the industry, apprise the Committee of the causes of price increase and also suggest possible remedies.

ECC also approved proposal from the Ministry of Defence Production for a Sovereign Guarantee to back the export of JF-17 Thunder Aircrafts by PAC Kamra.

Petroleum Prices for the month of October 2018

OGRA has worked out the prices of Petroleum products for the month of October, 2018 and has recommended the following increase in prices, considering the increase in global oil prices:

Pak-Kuwait Joint Ministerial Commission meeting concluded

The 2-day Pakistan-Kuwait Joint Ministerial Commission meeting concluded here on Friday. Finance Minister, Mr. Asad Umar, and Minister of Commerce & Industry of the State of Kuwait, H.E. Khaled Nasser Abdullah Al-Roudan co-chaired the meeting.

During the two days interaction there was general consensus to further strengthen the bilateral relations between the two countries especially in field of science & technology, business & finance and other potential sector of economy. Pakistan side emphasized the need for utilizing the highly capable human resource of the country that can contribute towards the growth and development of Kuwait. It was mutually agreed that both sides will facilitate frequent and unhindered movement of business community and labour force. Pakistan also expressed its desire to benefit from the extensive experience of Kuwait in the field of oil and gas exploration.

Both sides agreed that the fifth meeting of Pakistan-Kuwait Joint Ministerial Commission will be held at Kuwait in 2020.

Earlier Thursday at the Plenary Session both co-chairs, highlighted significance of Pak-Kuwait cordial political and economic relations. Minister Asad Umar expressed Pakistan’s desire to enhance economic and commercial cooperation with Kuwait for mutual benefit of both the countries. He invited Kuwaiti businessmen to invest in agriculture farmland, milk and food processing plants in Pakistan, for export of agricultural commodities of desired quality to Kuwait and other countries. He said that Kuwaiti investors may avail investment opportunities in Special Economic Zones of Pakistan in areas like automotive, food processing and textile as well as in oil & gas exploration. His Kuwaiti counterpart said that economic relation between the two countries would be further strengthened for the mutual benefits of both countries and their people.

4th Session of Pak-Kuwait Joint Ministerial Commission

Plenary Session of Pakistan-Kuwait Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) was held here today. Federal Minister for Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs, Mr. Asad Umar, and Minister of Commerce & Industry of the State of Kuwait, H.E. Khaled Nasser Abdullah Al-Roudan co-chaired the Session.
 
Speaking at the inaugural session, the Finance Minister welcomed the Kuwaiti delegation and said that Kuwait and Pakistan have cordial political and economic relations which are rooted in common bonds of religion and culture. He said that Pakistan desired to enhance economic and commercial cooperation with Kuwait for mutual benefit of both the countries. He invited Kuwaiti businessmen to invest in agriculture farmland, milk and food processing plants in Pakistan, for export of agricultural commodities of desired quality to Kuwait and other countries. He said that Kuwaiti investors may take benefit of attractive investment opportunities in Special Economic Zones of Pakistan in areas like automotive, food processing and textile as well as in oil & gas exploration. He hoped that businessmen of both countries will endeavour for further enhancing bilateral trade to its true potential.

The Kuwaiti Minister for Commerce and Industry expressed that economic relation between the two countries need further strengthening for the mutual benefits of both countries and their people.

CEOs of Islamic Banking Institutions called on Finance Minister

A delegation of Chief Executive Officers of Islamic Banking Institutions called on Federal Minister for Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs, Mr. Asad Umar here at the Ministry of Finance. Secretary Ministry of Finance Mr. Arif Ahmed Khan was also present on the occasion.

During the meeting, President Meezan Bank Irfan Siddique gave a detailed presentation on Islamic Banking sector in Pakistan.

He said that there was a great demand for Islamic banking as a large segment of population wanted to avail Islamic Banking services. He said that the industry which was set up in Pakistan in 2005 had witnessed a robust growth of 35 percent. The presentation also highlighted the obstacles faced by Islamic Banking institution in its future growth.

Finance Minister said the government was committed to promote Islamic Banking sector in the country and would help in resolving the issues faced by the industry. He said level playing field would be given to the Islamic Banking along with the conventional banking. He asked the Islamic Banking to come up with innovative products through which they could participate in sectors which were facing liquidity problems.

Finance Minister held a meeting with a Saudi delegation

Finance Minister Mr. Asad Umar held a meeting with a Saudi delegation led by H.E. Ahmad Agil F.Al-Khateeb, Chairman, Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) and Adviser to the Crown Prince, at Ministry of Finance today.  Mr. Al-Khateeb was heading a six member Saudi delegation that included senior officials of SFD. The Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to Pakistan, H.E. Nawaf Saeed Al-Malkiy was also present during the meeting.

Finance Minister discussed with the delegation matters relating to strengthening bilateral economic ties between the two brotherly countries.  The ongoing and pipeline projects of Saudi Fund for Development also came under discussion with the view to accelerate the pace of their implementation. Finance Minister appreciated the role of Saudi Development Fund as a development partner of the Government of Pakistan.

The two sides also signed three MoUs for grant projects in Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for the health and education sectors. Secretary Economic Affairs Division and Chief Executive Officer Saudi Fund for Development signed on behalf of their respective governments.

ECC defers decision to increase electricity tariff

The Federal Minister for Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs chaired the meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet here at the Cabinet Division.

On the proposal moved by the Ministry of Energy for the “Tariff Rationalization for Power Sector” ECC directed NEPRA and Power Division to prepare a comprehensive plan for improvement in service delivery in the power sector, reduction in transmission and distribution losses and maximizing recovery. The Committee also directed power Division to ensure that while preparing the plan for any increase in power tariff; it should be ensured that the poor and lower end consumers are not unnecessarily burdened. The consideration of Ministry of Power’s proposal regarding notification of NEPRA determined tariff was pended till finalization of the aforesaid plan.

Key Points of the Budget

• Rs. 92 billion will be recovered through the use of modern technology and not increasing the taxes on individuals
• Non-filers can buy property now but on a higher (registration ) rate
• 20% duty on 1800cc cars
• Ratio of income tax maintained on salaried persons getting up to Rs.200,000 per month
• For income more than 2400000, 29% highest tax rate for non-salaried and 25% for salaried
• For PM, Ministers and Governors, exemptions from tax ( on housing allowance, Conveyance and some other allowances ) withdrawn
• CPEC will be the government’s priority
• 50 billion for the development of infrastructure of Karachi (public private partnership projects)
• Total development funding 725 billion in 2018
• Petroleum development levy which was increased from Rs189 billion to Rs300 billion,  will be capped at 189 billion, on the earlier level
• 8276 houses to be built for the laborers, 4.5 billion allocated
• Fiscal adjustment made @2.1%
• Total revenue target of FBR 4390 billion (Hammad Azhar Mos Revenue)
• Super tax maintained
• Tax on cigarettes increased from Rs. 1 to Rs10 per pack
• Withholding tax on banking transactions for non-filers to be maintained
• Sehat card to be issued soon in Islamabad and Punjab.

Delegation of All Pakistan Exchange Association met with Finance Minister

A delegation of All Pakistan Exchange Association, led by Mr.Allauddin Sheikh called on the Federal Minister for Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs Asad Umar here on Tuesday.

The delegation apprised the Minister of the services being offered by its members to the Pakistanis. The delegation also shared with the Minister the issues they had been facing due to smuggling of foreign exchange through various means. The members of the delegation also informed the Minister regarding the Regulatory requirements that were hindering the growth of this important sector.

The delegation also shared their proposals for stopping the illegal export of US dollars from different channels and suggested measures to control under invoicing of imports.

The Finance Minister thanked the delegation for its valuable suggestions and assured them of his full cooperation in solving their genuine issues. He said that this service sector could also help in controlling Hundi and Hawala thereby ensuring remittance of foreign exchange through legal channels.

OICCI delegation called on Finance Minister

A delegation of Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce & Industry (OICCI) led by Mr. Irfan Wahab khan, President OICCI, called on the Federal Minister for Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs, Asad Umar this morning.

The delegation greeted the Finance Minister on taking charge of his new responsibilities. The Minister welcomed the delegation and acknowledged the importance of the corporate sector in the development of Pakistan.

President OICCI apprised the Minister that OICCI wanted to share their vision of future development of the country and how the overseas investors could become the drivers of change in the journey. The delegation shared its ideas and proposals to build the investors’ confidence both local and foreign for bringing in more investment to Pakistan.

The Finance Minister appreciated the efforts of the OICCI in assisting the government in the matters of policy formulation that could help attract further investment. The Minister said that the Government is firm on its commitment to address the key structural issues of Pakistan’s economy. The Minister said that the government is holding consultation for setting up the Business Advisory Council to establish a liaison between government and business community to make Pakistan the regional hub for investors. The Minister said that it is his vision to introduce latest technology in tax system to reduce hassle and bring in more transparency to the system.

The Minister also said that the government wants to address the issues of twin deficits on a long term basis and he believes that the key to the problem lies in promoting manufacturing industry and creating jobs for the youth of the country and this is the area where Overseas Chamber could assist and lead the way.

The Finance Minister said that the Government would soon introduce necessary changes in the Finance Act 2018 to make it more relevant to the current economic state of the country and reflective of the progressive vision of the new Government.

Finance Minister chaired a meeting on the issues relating to fertilizer production

The Federal Minister for Finance, Asad Umar along with Mr. Abdul Razak Dawood chaired a meeting here at the Finance Division on the issue relating to fertilizer production and its continued availability in the market in sufficient quantities.

Finance Minister chaired a meeting of National Executive Committee (NEC)

Finance Minister, Mr. Asad Umar chaired meeting of National Executive Committee (NEC). The NEC is high level body established to oversee both policy and implementation matters of the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter Financing of Terrorism regime. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss and review progress in AML/CFT areas of the relevant stakeholders especially implementation status of FATF Action Plan. Different stakeholders presented progress in their respective areas on Action Plan and other AML/CFT areas. During discussion, the Finance Minister emphasized to put more efforts to meet the compliance of AML/CFT regime with international standards. The Finance Minister was of the view that the Action Plan may be seen as an opportunity rather than a challenge and this Action Plan will set directions for a robust AML/CFT regime in Pakistan as per international standards. The Minister emphasized the need to work hard and achieve the desired action well before the agreed time lines as it is in the interest of the country.

APTMA delegation called on Finance Minister

A delegation of APTMA led by Mr. Aamir Fayyaz Sheikh, called on the Federal Minister for Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs, Asad Umar. Mr. Abdul Razak Dawood, the Advisor to Prime Minister on Textile, Commerce, Industry and Production, and Investment was also present on the occasion.

The delegation congratulated the Finance Minister on assuming charge of the Ministry of Finance and said that the Industry hopes that the new government will take decisions in the interest of the Industrial sector after incorporating the feedback from the respective sectors.

The Finance Minister told the delegation that it is his foremost priority to support in any way possible the export oriented sectors of the industry and in this regard all possible cooperation will be provided from the Government.

APTMA discussed various issues regarding gas and electricity pricing, proposed withdrawal of customs duty and sales tax on import of raw materials, sales tax refunds, extension of duty drawback scheme for 5 years and maintaining market based exchange rate.

Three member delegation of the China Three Gorges South Asia investment Limited called on the Finance Minister

A three member delegation of the China Three Gorges South Asia investment Limited led by their President and CEO, Mr. Qin Goubin called on the Federal Minister for Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs Asad Umar this afternoon.

Mr. Goubin congratulated the Finance Minister on assuming office and expressed hopes that the cooperation between Pakistan and the Chinese Energy producer will further strengthen during the term of the new government.

Mr. Goubin briefed the Minister that their Company has been working on Wind and Solar energy generation for many years. In Pakistan it is working on Karot hydropower station in the Kashmir region in cooperation with IFC.

The Minister appreciated the work being done by the company in renewable energy and said that keeping in view the impact on environment and its low cost, the new government wishes to promote clean and renewable sources of energy.

Federal Govt to Notify 9th NFC soon

The Federal Minister for Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs Asad Umar has written letters to all Provincial Chief Ministers for the reconstitution of the 9th National Finance Commission (NFC). The NFC is required to be set up at intervals not exceeding five years as required under clause (1) of the Article 160 of the constitution. The Federal Finance Minister and the Finance Ministers of the Provinces are the statutory members of NFC. It is customary to include one non-statutory member from each province.

Letters have accordingly been dispatched to Sardar Usman Ahmad Buzdar Chief Minister Punjab, Syed Murad Ali Shah Chief Minister Sindh, Mahmood Khan Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhua and to Jam Kamal Khan Chief Minister Balochistan. The letters state that after general elections 2018, new governments are in place both at the Federal and Provincial levels, necessitating re-confirmation of non-statutory members from the provinces.

The Finance Minister has asked the Provincial Chief Ministers to either reconfirm the earlier nominated members or intimate the change in the nomination to enable the Federal Government to notify the 9th NFC and start deliberations of the Commission.

Finance Minister chaired the meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC)

Federal Minister for Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs Asad Umar chaired the meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC) this morning at the Cabinet Division.

The meeting received a presentation on the issue of circular debt that has accumulated over the years to a hefty sum of Rs.1188 billion. The Committee was briefed on the impact of Industrial Support Package, Azad Jammu Kashmir subsidized units, Balochistan agricultural tubewells, FATA receivables, and the impact of existing time lag on tariff determination mechanism of NEPRA.

The ECC observed that the PML-N government had taken the decision to discontinue the provision of subsidized power supply to AJK in budget 2018 and the previous government had also decided to discontinue the industrial Support package. The Committee decided to bring the facts to the attention of the Federal Cabinet.

On the issue of recoveries, it was decided that meters of those persons, Departments and Ministries or any private entity will be disconnected if they fail to pay their bills for consecutive three months. On the payment of their bills they will be provided prepaid meters Chairman ECC directed the Power Division to take strict legal action against those officials and individual who are involved in power theft and to not show any leniency on the issue.

The ECC also decided that to cope up with the issue of urea fertilizer shortage in the country, three urea manufacturing plants that are  presently in-operational will be supplied RLNG  for a period of four months starting from September with 50% cost of RLNG being picked up by the government and the balance 50% by the respective manufacturing units. These Plants will utilize their full potential and the decision to import fertilizer will be taken after taking into account their production capacity.

The ECC directed Ministry of Industries and Production to:

(i)        workout figures/data about actual production  and consumption of the urea during 2017-18 and the estimates for 2018-19, in consultation with Ministry of National Food Security & Research and submit a report thereof to the ECC in its next meeting.  In case of any  shortfall in consumption of urea, the reasons may also be identified in the report,

(ii)       facilitate the operationalization of  three closed fertilizer plants i.e. Fatimafert, Agritech and Pakarab (in case of the latter only to the extent of urea production amounting to 8000 tons per month) on 100% RLNG for urea production for four months (September - December 2018),

(iii)      workout total subsidy impact on running of all three plants i.e. Fatimafert, Agritech and Pakarab on 100% RLNG with 50% of subsidy being borne by the Government while remaining 50% being picked up by the respective fertilizer plants; and

(iv)      workout the windfall gains reaped by the fertilizer industry, in light of the net Variable Contribution Magins, as a result of charging higher rates as well as exports during 2017-18 and 2018-19.  The windfall gains may be adjusted against the subsidy outstanding in favour of fertilizer industry, under the fertilizer subsidy schemes which were in vogue during the preceding 03 financial years.

On the presentation of the Special Audit Report on payment of Circular Debt of Rs. 480 billion by the Department of Auditor General of Pakistan, the ECC directed to hold an Operational and Financial Audit of DISCOs. It was decided that the Auditor General of Pakistan will complete the Audit of 4 highest loss making Discos in one month’s time and the audit of the entire sector will be completed in two month’s time after the approval from Cabinet.

The ECC also considered the Update on the issue of sale of K-Electric and issued directions to the Departments concerned to formulate their recommendations for CCOP.

Petroleum Prices for September 2018

On the Recommendations of Oil & Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA), the Prime Minister of Pakistan has approved the following changes in the prices of petroleum products.

Foreign Minister of Iran called on the Finance Minister

The Foreign Minister of Iran Mr. Jawad Zarif called on the Federal Minister for Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs Asad Umar this afternoon.

The Minister greeted the guest and extended his warm wishes for the people of Iran and said that he hopes that the relations between the two Islamic and brotherly countries will strengthen further and there will be more chances for trade and energy cooperation between the two countries.

The Iranian Minister extended his felicitations to the Minister on assuming his new responsibilities and conveyed the best wishes for the new government. The Iranian Foreign Minister appreciated the warm welcome given to him by the Pakistani Government.

The Finance Minister thanked the Iranian Minister and stated that the Ministry of Finance will continue to support his efforts for further strengthening of brotherly relations between the two countries.

Japanese State Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr. Kazuyuki Nakane met with Finance Minister

The Japanese State Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr. Kazuyuki Nakane conveyed his best wishes to the incumbent Finance Minister Asad Umar on assuming charge as the new Finance Minister of the country before witnessing the signing two agreements for Installation of Weather Surveillance Radar in Multan City and Human Resource Development Scholarship. It may be mentioned that Government of Japan has extended grant assistance worth Japanese Yen 2,370 Million (approx. equivalent to US$ 21.36 Million) to the Government of Pakistan for the two projects titled (i) Installation of Weather Surveillance Radar in Multan City and (ii) Human Resource Development Scholarship.

The Finance Minister welcomed Mr. Nakane and said that the new government wishes to strengthen its economic ties with the Japanese Government for achieving full bilateral business potential.
The Japanese Minister said that Pakistan and Japan have diplomatic relations since 1952 and we wish to further strengthen the relations in future. The Japanese Foreign Minister said that with the NAYA PAKISTAN there should also be “Naya Japan Pakistan” stressing on the need to further improve trade relations between the two countries.

Installation of surveillance weather radar will enhance Pakistan’s Meteorological Department (PMD)’s capabilities in meteorological observation, weather forecasting and dissemination of warnings through the installation of a sophisticated radar system. This will contribute to the mitigation of damages caused by natural disasters and reduce extensive damages to agricultural products and transportation.

Human Resource Development Scholarships will strengthen the government’s administrative capacities in by providing opportunities to the young capable government officials to obtain master’s degree and then play leadership role in contributing to the socio-economic development of the country.

The Finance Minister acknowledged the support of Japan for extending economic and technical assistance to Pakistan in the sectors of energy, road infrastructure, industries, agriculture, water, health, education and security. He also said that Pakistan will welcome the Japanese investment through joint ventures between the private sectors of the two countries.

Finance Minister chaired a meeting of Economic Coordination Committee (ECC)

The Meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet (ECC) was held under the chairmanship of Asad Umar Federal Minister for Finance, Revenue, and Economic Affairs today at the Prime Minister’s Secretariat.

Chairman ECC expressed displeasure on the issue of Fertilizer pricing and its export, taken by the previous government which was totally against the interests of the farmer community. He said that the interest of the poor farmer should be the supreme motivation for taking such decisions. The ECC was informed that the total requirement of fertilizer for the country for this sowing season would be around 600,000 tons. The ECC directed that a committee will be formed under the chairmanship of Advisor Industry and Production Mr.Abdul Razak Dawood to hold discussions with the local fertilizer industry to ascertain the total domestic production. The committee will present its recommendations in next ECC meeting following which the decision will be made regarding import of urea.

Ministry of Energy, Power Division gave a detailed presentation on the amount of piled up Circular Debt. According to the data compiled up to 31st July 2018 by the Ministry, It was brought to the notice of the ECC, that the amount of Circular debt is standing at Rs.596 billion with an increase of Rs. 30 billion in the last month (i.e. July), another Rs. 582 billion are parked with the Power Holding companies under the STFF arrangements. The total liability currently stands at Rs.1188 billion. The ECC identified the 5-6 key areas that accounted for the pile up of these liabilities and formed different committees to work upon the reasons and formulate their suggestions to be presented in the next ECC meeting that is to be scheduled in the next week. ECC will later present its suggestions to the Cabinet for the approval and decision on the future course of action. Chairman ECC stated that all facts will be shared with the public to make decision making a transparent and inclusive exercise.

The summary for Pakistan State Oil Financial health and Liquidity position was deferred as the issue is closely linked with Circular Debt therefore the matter would be considered subsequently.

Finance Minister met with South Asia Regional Vice President of World Bank

Mr. Asad Umar, Minister for Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs met with South Asia Regional Vice President of World Bank, Mr. Hartwig Schafer at Ministry of Finance today.  The Finance Minister welcomed the Vice President and stated that World Bank had been long standing development partner of Pakistan and had offered significant support to the Government over the years.

The Vice President stated that his Bank will continue to extend support to Government of Pakistan for implementation of the agenda for economic growth and social development being pursued by the new government. He outlined that achievement of economic stabilization is an important objective for government. The Vice President also emphasized the importance of Human Capital Development, Macroeconomic Stabilization and Inclusive Growth for Pakistan; and reaffirmed World Bank’s support to Pakistan in these areas.

The Minister for Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs informed the visiting Vice President of World Bank that the government will take all the requisite measures to implement the economic reform agenda to help put the economy back on track. Finance Minister also shared with the Vice President that the new government desires to enhance the role of private sector and for that private sector will be encouraged to take lead in the economic development of the country. 

The meeting was also attended by Secretary Finance and Joint Secretary (WB), Economic Affairs Division.

Ambassador of People’s Republic of China called on the Finance Minister

Mr. Yao Jing Ambassador of People’s Republic of China called on the Federal Minister for Finance, Revenue, and Economic Affairs Asad Umar here at the Finance Division.

The Minister greeted the guest and extended his best wishes for the People’s Republic of China. The Ambassador extended his felicitations to the Minister on assuming his new responsibilities and expressed his good wishes for the new government. The Ambassador said that he looked forward working closely with the Ministry of Finance with a view to further increasing the economic cooperation between the two countries.

The Minister thanked the Ambassador and expressed his desire to further enhance bilateral cooperation in various fields, referring to CPEC the Minister said that the corridor will play an important role in taking Pakistan’s economy forward as well as cementing the bilateral relationship. He assured the ambassador of his full support for the assistance in that regard.

Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan called on the Finance Minister

Mr. Nawaf Bin Said Al Malki, the Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan called on the Federal Minister for Finance, Revenue, and Economic Affairs Asad Umar here at the Finance Division.

The Minister greeted the guest and extended his warm wishes for the people of Saudi Arabia. The Ambassador extended his felicitations to the Minister on assuming his new responsibilities and conveyed the best wishes and full support from King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud . The Ambassador said that the bilateral relations between the countries are rooted in history and will further strengthen in future.

The Minister thanked the Ambassador and stated that the Ministry of Finance will continue to support his efforts for further strengthening of brotherly relations between the two countries.

Finance Minister chaired a meeting to review the working of Economic Affairs Division

The Federal Minister for Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs Asad Umar chaired a meeting here to review the working of the Economic Affairs Division, today.

The Minister was given detailed briefing on various aspects of economic cooperation with various bilateral and multilateral development partners. The briefing included financial progress of different foreign funded projects as well as certain aspects of potential projects to be included in the pipeline in future.

Visit of Asia Pacific Group (APG) delegation to Pakistan

A team of Asia Pacific Group (APG) Secretariat and International Assessors visited Pakistan from 13-17 August 2018 in connection with mutual evaluation of the country’s Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter-Financing of Terrorism (CFT) regime.

The visiting APG delegation called on the Caretaker Finance Minister, Dr. Shamshad Akhtar today and had discussion with her about the purpose of their visit, issues in compliance of policy actions and the schedule of further activities concerning the mutual evaluation. The Minister welcomed the delegation and expressed Pakistan’s commitment and full cooperation to work with APG and FATF, and to provide necessary support to the delegation to complete its task of mutual evaluation. The Minister gave a strong sense that the concerned authorities would be able to complete their respective tasks as early as possible. The Finance Minister urged the APG delegation to be flexible and practical in their deadlines and allow full opportunity to the authorities to provide necessary materials and reports to APG. The Minister particularly highlighted the transition of government as a consequence of the General Elections 2018 in the country and maintained that the incoming government would need further time to gear itself with the requirements of mutual evaluation and related matters.

Earlier the APG delegation met with the operational teams of different Ministries, organizations and authorities concerned with AML/CFT, including Ministries of Finance, Interior, Foreign Affairs and Law & Justice, State Bank of Pakistan, Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan, CDNS, NACTA, FIA, FBR-Customs, FBR-IRS, NAB, ANF, Provincial CTDs, and FMU.

The meetings enhanced the understanding of the APG delegation on Pakistan’s technical compliance with 40 FATF standards and provided necessary information and clarity in this regard. The APG delegation explained the assessment methodology of FATF, its provisional analysis of Pakistan’s compliance and highlighted the need to provide all relevant materials in support of the compliance position given by Pakistan. The authorities made out a strong case of technical compliance and highlighted various legislative, administrative and regulatory instruments in support of their position. The APG delegation acknowledged Pakistan’s position and advised the authorities to share final reports on technical compliance and effectiveness of implementation with APG by the end of August 2018. The APG delegation further explained the schedule of activities in connection with the mutual evaluation process.

The APG delegation appreciated the coordination and facilitation extended by the Government of Pakistan and all the authorities that remained available during the pre on-site visit to explain Pakistan’s technical compliance with FATF standards. The APG delegation appreciated the clarifications provided by the Pakistani authorities, which helps delegation in better understanding Pakistan’s AML/CFT regime. The delegation hoped that all the preparatory work would be completed before the final on-site meeting in October, 2018.

Finance Minister chaired a meeting of National Executive Committee

Finance Minister, Dr. Shamshad Akhtar chaired meeting of National Executive Committee (NEC) here. 

NEC is high level body established to oversee both policy and implementation matters of the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter Financing of Terrorism regime.
          
The meeting, among others, was attended by Minister Interior and Minister of Law, Governor State Bank of Pakistan, Secretary Foreign Affairs and senior officials of FMU, NACTA, FIA, FBR, SECP and  other departments and institutions concerned.
           
The meeting took stock of the  progress made to strengthen the institutional framework and coordination for the implementation of the FATF Action Plan.  Most principal agencies reported having set up focal points and dedicated units to pursue effective implementation.   Senior officials from various departments concerned briefed the meeting on progress regarding their respective spheres of work and there was an agreement that all agencies will coordinated to fast track work on FATF Policy Action Plan to ensure effective compliance with the  action plan.   In line with its mandate, the Financial Monitoring Unit (FMU) will coordinate the review and prepare a consolidated progress report for final submission to the Asia-Pacific Joint Group by middle of August 2018.
          
The meeting agreed on key steps to be taken to 

(i) strengthen the Federal-Provincial Coordination to ensure effective coordination among the law enforcing agencies and the concerned provincial departments; (ii) formation of a review group to finalize the critical components of the national risk assessment; (iii)  launch work on the mutual evaluation  by APG soon. and (iv) stregnthen FMU to ensure it is able to coordinate overall AML/CFT work and offer the required advisory support to all agencies.  NEC reviewed preparations for the APG and other assessors forthcoming visit to Pakistan from by second week of August, 2018 and the preparations for the 2nd  meeting of the Asia-Pacific joint group and Pakistan  scheduled to be held in mid-September 2018  which will examine progress in different areas of  the FATF Action Plan.  APG and the assessors will meet various AML/CFT stakeholders to discuss Technical compliance (TCQ) report and additionally the Effectiveness report submitted by Pakistan and ML/TF risks in Pakistan. The visit will serve as an opportunity to develop understanding among domestic authorities on the mutual evaluation procedures and assessment methodology.

Prices of Petroleum Products to remain unchanged

The Government has decided to maintain the prices of petroleum products at the existing level during the month of August 2018.

Despite price increase recommended by OGRA due to price hike in international market, the Government has decided to keep the rates of petroleum products unchanged. Tax/duty adjustments have been made accordingly.

Finance Minister has expressed profound grief and sorrow over the sad demise of Abdul Ghafoor Mirza, former Federal Secretary Finance

Finance Minister, Dr. Shahmshad Akhtar has expressed profound grief and sorrow over the sad demise of Abdul Ghafoor Mirza, former Federal Secretary Finance.

In her condolence message, the Minister prayed that may Allah Almighty grant eternal peace to the departed soul and fortitude to the bereaved family to bear this loss with equanimity.

PBC delegation met with Finance Minister

A delegation of the Pakistan Business Council (PBC) led by Ehsan Malik and Bashir Ali Mohammad met Finance Minister, Dr. Shamshad Akhtar here Thursday.   The meeting was attended by secretaries of the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Planning, Development and Reform, the Ministry of Energy and Chairperson Federal Board of Revenue and additional secretary of the Ministry of Commerce.

The CEO, PBC made a comprehensive presentation of the issues facing corporate sector and shared proposals on strengthening the overall business environment and steps that could help boost different sectors of the economy.  Concern was expressed regarding the trend towards deindustrialization in the country as Pakistan industry lacked competitiveness given the high cost of power and gas and faces difficult business environment because of distortions in incentive framework and inconsistencies of policy regime.  The PBC delegation advocated for provision of energy at competitive costs and addressing in a more holistic manner, the inefficiencies of DISCOs including their eventual privatization that have resulted in high cost of power to industry.  At the same time PBC emphasized broadening of tax base, reduction in indirect taxes and cascading duty structure. The delegates called for reduction and simplification and reduction in the number of taxes through unification of multiple taxes and reduction in tax rates to strengthen taxcompliance. The delegation also laid emphasis on provision of level playing field with the informal sector, with focus on steps for ease of doing business that would ultimately revitalize growth of industry and thus generate jobs, exports and revenues for the national exchequer to invest in social development. The delegation observed that there was a need to effectively tap the potential in the country’s housing sector as it could help generate a large number ofjob opportunities annually.   PBC called for establishment of a a High level Council including political leaderships as well as independent and corporate experts tasked to develop deeper structural reforms and achieve broader acceptability and consensus from various quarters concerned.

Tax Amnesty Schemes

The Ministry of Finance assures all applicants making declarations under the Tax Amnesty Scheme that the information provided by them shall remain strictly confidential and the guarantees provided under the scheme shall be abided in letter and spirit.

Tax Amnesty Schemes - 2018

Government of Pakistan announced two tax amnesty schemes, namely, Foreign Assets (Declaration and Repatriation) Ordinance, 2018 for undisclosed foreign assets and Voluntary Declaration of Domestic Assets Ordinance, 2018 for undisclosed income and domestic assets. However as required by the Constitution, both Ordinances were placed before the Parliament and through Finance Act 2018, these became Voluntary Declaration of Domestic Assets Act, 2018 for undisclosed income and domestic assets and Foreign Assets (Declaration and Repatriation) Act, 2018 for undisclosed foreign assets. These Acts were further amended through Presidential Ordinances on June 30th, 2018.

The original closing date for filing declarations under the amnesty scheme was June 30th, 2018. It has been extended till July 31st, 2018 on account of representations from trade bodies, professional associations and general public due to short operational period after clearing legal and procedural challenges and problems faced by declarants in the payment of tax on foreign assets and repatriation of liquid assets. The Presidential Ordinances dated June 30th, 2018 amended the amnesty acts to extend the applicability date of the schemes and to include explanations on ambiguities such as exchange rate. The amendment Ordinances have also provided for revision of declarations.

Public response to the schemes has been positive. So far, 55,225 declarations have been filed in which declared value of foreign assets is around Rs. 577 billion and that of domestic assets is around Rs.1,192 billion. Declarants have paid around Rs. 97 billion out of which around Rs. 36 billion have been collected on foreign assets and 61 billion on domestic assets. In addition, $ 40 million has been repatriated. This response to the amnesty schemes has been unprecedented.

Amnesty scheme for foreign assets applies to both liquid and immovable assets such as bank accounts, shares and mortgaged properties. Tax rates range from 2% to 5%, depending on the type of asset. Special tax rate of 2% is applicable to liquid assets which are repatriated into Pakistan. The amnesty scheme for domestic assets covers all types of assets and income, with tax rates of 2% and 5%. To protect declarants from any harassment, both schemes under Voluntary Declaration of Domestic Assets Act, 2018 and Foreign Assets (Declaration and Repatriation) Act, 2018 promulgated on 8th April 2018 which eventually was made part of Finance Act 2018 to ensure complete confidentiality of declarant’s information. Moreover, such information cannot be used as evidence against declarants under any other law.

Finance Minister is closely monitoring the operation of the amnesty schemes and constantly advising both the FBR and SBP for improving payment procedures and ensuring effective facilitation. As per directions of the Finance Minister, FBR has set-up help lines, which operate 24/7 with dedicated telephone lines and e-mails for quick response to queries. FAQs, online user guide and all relevant documents have been published on FBR’s website (www.fbr.gov.pk) which are periodically updated on the basis of queries raised by intermediaries and declarants. Frequent interaction withprivate sector including accounting professionals and tax practitioner bodies have been helpful.  Similar arrangements have been put in place in SBP.

The online user guide provides step by step information regarding registration under the amnesty schemes, procedure for payment of tax and submission of declarations. Officers well versed with the features of the amnesty schemes have been assigned the task of responding to queries. There is also a fully functional IT support team which regularly monitors online IT system.

For payment of tax on foreign assets, State Bank of Pakistan has devised a procedure, whereby tax in USD is deposited into SBP’s account through wire transfer. Government has issued Government of Pakistan’s US Dollar Denominated Amnesty Rules, 2018, whereby SBP has been authorized to issue these bonds having a maturity period of five years and annual profit of 3% to be paid semi-annually. According to the rules, citizens of Pakistan can invest in these bonds out of remittances declared under the foreign amnesty or through encashment of foreign currency accounts held in Pakistan.

The low rates of the Amnesty Schemes ranging between 2% - 5% and is a major incentive for declaring undeclared assets and income. Pakistan has also become a signatory to the OECD Multilateral Convention which will provide access to information about offshore financial accounts of Pakistani residents from September 2018. This will enhance the capacity of FBR due to access to offshore financial accounts of Pakistani residents held in the signatory countries. Necessary amendments have also been made in the Protection of Economic Reform (PERA) Act, 1992, to regulate FX movements and bring it in line with Income Tax Ordinance, 2001. Moreover, amendments have been made in the Income Tax Ordinance, 2001, whereby FBR may inquire about the source of foreign remittance above Rs.10 million and limitation of five years to probe foreign assets and income has been removed.

Finance Minister chaired a meeting on measures against cross border illegal transportation of currency

Finance Minister, Dr. Shamshad Akhtar here Tuesday chaired a meeting to discuss measures against cross border illegal transportation /smuggling of currency.

The Minister at the outset of the meeting said that as part of steps to check terror financing and menace of money laundering we need to put in collective efforts to check currency smuggling through our borders to control terrorism and other criminal activities.

The Minister highlighted the areas for immediate focus to check cross border illegal transportation of currency. She said it is important that authorities properly identify and understand the nature of risks of cash couriers that are being used for Terror financing. She said there is need for further strengthening the currency/ Bearer Instruments declaration/seizure regime at all ports of entry by applying effective, proportionate and dissuasive sanctions when there are instances of false declaration/failure to declare and currency smuggling. Dr. Shamshad stressed effective implementation of the integrated database for monitoring and enforcing SBP's currency regulation regime at all ports of entry. She said it is important that authorities at the border points should enhance the coordination and cooperation by sharing information on currency smuggling. Customs and other agencies need to work together to improve border controls. Effective internal co-operation is essential in order to effectively control the problem, the Minister added.

The meeting expressed consensus on physical and technological up-gradation of systems, in line with international standards, at all ports and other check points along the borders. The meeting observed that legal provisions to check currency smuggling and bring to book those involved in this crime were in place. However, effective implementation and further consolidation in this area should be enhanced.  The meeting also emphasized close coordination among agencies/institutions concerned at airports and border check points for effective control of currency smuggling. There was also emphasis on ensuring currency declarations by passengers on all incoming and outbound flights besides scanning of passengers’ belongings.

Finance Minister welcomed the suggestions made by the participants and said their speedy implementation was the requirement. She directed FBR for immediate assessment of the legal regulatory deficiencies as well as tools, instruments and equipment required to put in place checks and controls at ports, entry/exit points to curb illegal currency transportation/smuggling. She said checking currency smuggling would ultimately help the cause of curbing terror financing and money laundering.

Finance Minister met with Alice G. Wells, US Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State

Finance Minister, Dr. Shamshad Akhtar received US Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia, Alice G. Wells for a meeting here on Tuesday.

They discussed the current state of Pak-US relations with particular focus on economic cooperation. The overall security situation in the region also came under discussion.

Finance Minister said that such bilateral visits enhance understanding of each other’s point of view on important issues. She also apprised Ms Wells about the current state of economy and said it was poised to move forward on the path of growth despite difficulties.

Ms Alice Wells said that Pak -US relationship is important and the US would like to carry it forward.

The Minister on the occasion also briefed Alice Wells about Pakistan’s participation in the recently concluded FATF meeting at Paris, France. She said Pakistan has reiterated its strong commitment to take every possible step to root out the menace of terror financing and money laundering. Ms Wells appreciated Pakistan’s stance on FATF issues.

FATF Plenary meetings were held in OECD, Paris from 24th to 29th June 2018

FATF Plenary meetings were held in OECD, Paris from 24th  to 29th June 2018 to discuss issues relating to security and integrity of the global financial systems. The meetings were attended by delegates from several countries  as well as the UN, IMF, World Bank and other multilateral institutions.

Pakistan delegation was led by Finance Minister, Dr. Shamshad Akhtar  along with officials from Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, State Bank of Pakistan and Financial Monitoring Unit. On the sidelines of FATF and ICRG meetings, the Pakistani delegation held bi-lateral meetings with several FATF members to ensure their support for Pakistan in the FATF process. FATF members were informed that the Government of Pakistan already sent its commitment letter to the FATF Presdient on the Policy Action Plan on 22 June 2018.   

A special intervention to FATF/ICRG was made by Dr. Shamshad Akhtar. She emphasised that Pakistan was steadfast in upgrading the AML/CFT standards and ensuring their enforcement. She reiterated the Government of Pakistan’s strong resolve to strengthen its counter measures against terrorism and terrorism financing, and to implement the Action Plan by adopting a “whole-of-government” approach. This opportunity was instrumental in ensuring Pakistan’s commitment to the world for compliance of international standards and increasing effectiveness of regulatory and enforcement regimes for its own benefit.

Extensive preparation in consultations with all the concerned authorities and inititating some actions prior to the Paris meetings was helpful in strengthening Pakistan’s case. The FATF/ICRG group supported  Pakistan’s proposition on keeping the timeframe realistic for implementation of policy actions.

Further to the decision already made at the FATF Plenary held in February 2018, the FATF Plenary of June 2018 approved the Action Plan for Pakistan and placed Pakistan on its Public Statement in the Ongoing Compliance section.

Pakistan, OECD to strengthen cooperation in various areas including tax related matters

Pakistan and Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) would further strengthen their cooperation in various areas including tax related matters and sharing of experiences in social and economic development. The OECD will extend technical assistance to Pakistan in its efforts for undertaking broad based tax reforms.

These views were expressed during the bilateral meeting between Finance Minister Dr. Shamshad Akhtar and OECD Secretary General, Angel Gurria at the OECD Headquarters in Paris.

Both sides expressed satisfaction over the ongoing cooperation between Pakistan and the OECD. Pakistan signed the OECD Convention on Mutual Administrative Assistance in Tax Matters in September 2016, and Multilateral Convention to Implement Tax Treaty Related Measures to Prevent Base Erosion and Profit Sharing (BEPS) as well as Multilateral Competent Authority Agreement on Automatic Exchange of Financial Accounts (MCAA) in June 2017. Pakistan has previously been participating in various OECD Global Fora meetings.

The Secretary General invited Pakistan to further enhance its engagement with the OECD by participating in its various programmes including the Initiative on Global Value Chains, inclusive growth framework, detection of foreign bribery and revenue statistics. Minster for Finance & Revenue discussed support to conduct an in-depth review of Pakistan’s tax policy to support its reform effort as well as technical assistance through Tax Inspectors Without Borders Program. The Secretary General asked the OECD team to follow up on the request on an urgent basis. 

Moody's Investor Service reaffirms Pakistan's ratings

Moody’s Investor Service, on June 20, 2018 reaffirmed Pakistan’s local and foreign currency long-term issuer and unsecured debt ratings as B3. While reaffirming the credit rating, Moody’s has appreciated Pakistan’s robust growth potential, supported by ongoing improvements in energy supply and infrastructure which have the potential to raise economic competitiveness over time. The outlook has, however, been changed to Negative on account of factors which may impact the external account situation.

The Government is fully aware of the challenges facing its external account and short to medium term remedial measures are already being put in place. To curtail aggregate demand, interest rate has been enhanced by 75 basis points since January 2018. The added exchange rate flexibility is expected to contribute towards containing the current account deficit.As exports pick up, 13.3 percent increase in July-April period, and CPEC related imports peak out, the current account deficit is expected to peak this year and decline in the coming years.FDI and remittances have also rebounded with an increase of 2.5 percent and 3.9 percent respectively during current financial year.The Government has also successfully decelerated the import bill through imposition of regulatory duties on non-essential and luxury items. Following clearance from the Supreme Court of Pakistan, the recently announced Amnesty Scheme is also expected to bring additional inflows. The country has sufficient foreign exchange reserves to meet its obligations on account of external debt repayments.

The Government is fully committed to maintain sound policies with the aim of sustaining macroeconomic stability and accelerating economic growth. The growth trajectory achieved over recent years is testimony to the success of the Government’s reforms agenda. Heavy investments in the energy and infrastructure sectors under the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), keeping inflationary pressure to levels below 4 percent, achieving fiscal discipline and introducing greater transparency are some of the highlights of the recent past.

Finance Minister chaired a high level meeting at FBR

Finance Minister, Dr. Shamshad Akhtar chaired a high level meeting at the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) here on Tuesday.

During the meeting Chairman FBR briefed the Minister about the progress of the Tax Amnesty Scheme and the current state of revenue generation. He said that moral suasion has been the hallmark of FBR’s drive to encourage people to declare their assets at home and abroad and contribute to the national exchequer. He said overall there has been positive response to the amnesty scheme and it would have significant bearing on revenue generation. The Chairman shared with the Minister details about the task carried out by the Tax Reforms Committee over a period of time, making recommendations and proposals for reformation of the tax regime. He also apprised her about the working of the High Powered Implementation Committee which has seen to it that recommendations for tax reforms are prioritized in terms of their utility and implemented in letter and spirit.

Finance Minister, while reiterating that the date for the amnesty scheme would not be extended, urged senior FBR officials to keep up efforts for best possible results under the scheme. She also emphasized effectively utilizing public liaison/advertisement campaign during remainder of the scheme’s validity period to take the scheme to a meaningful and conclusive end.

The Minister also on this occasion called upon FBR to come up with measures, particularly those for simplification of filing of returns and automation that can help enhance revenue generation. She also highlighted the need for installation of quality scanners at all the ports, completely replacing physical checking for Customs clearance, a step that she said would help boost revenue.

Petroleum Prices for the month of June 2018

Click here for Petroleum Prices for the Month of June 2018

Mr.Patchamuthu Illangovan, Country Director World Bank called on the Finance Minister

Mr.Patchamuthu Illangovan, Country Director World Bank called on the Minister for Finance, Revenue, Economic Affairs, Statistics and Planning Development and Reforms Dr. Shamshad Akhtar on Thursday.

Mr. Illangovan felicitated the Finance Minister on assuming her new responsibilities and assured of all possible cooperation from the bank in important development projects.

Finance Minister thanked Mr. Illangovan for his best wishes and said that with the valuable support from our development partners our journey for the development of the country will continue in future.

Finance Minister Dr. Shamshad Akhtar chaired a meeting to review the performance of FBR

Dr. Shamshad Akhtar , the Minister for Finance, Revenue, Economic Affairs, Statistics and Planning and Development chaired a meeting here on Wednesday to review the performance of the Federal Board of Revenue in the current financial Year (2017-2018).

Chairman FBR, Mr. Tariq Mehmood Pasha, felicitated the Minister on assuming her new responsibilities and gave a detailed presentation on the measures so far being taken by the Federal Board of Revenue to achieve the tax collection targets, the major steps taken by FBR to facilitate the tax payers and the key achievements of FBR during the last five year’s period.

The Chairman briefed the Minister that the tax to GDP ratio has increased from 8.7% in 2012-13 to 12.4% of GDP in 2017-18. He told that the number of tax return filers have almost doubled to 1.4 million till 2017-18 and worth Rs.300 billion of SROs have been eliminated as a major reform to broaden the tax system. He also said that for the facilitation of the tax payers their CNIC has been adopted as the National Tax Number and the number of tax slabs have been reduced to 4 from 7. He also mentioned the queue management system for the Sales Tax Refund and direct transfer of sales tax refunds into tax payer’s accounts as major reforms to upgrade the tax system in the country.

The Minister during the meeting discussed the overall macro-economic condition of the country and the importance of FBR as the major revenue generation source for the Government’s operations. The Minister stressed the need to improve Tax to GDP ratio of the country to fund the development projects. She also sought the feedback from the FBR Chief on the impact of different amnesty schemes and tax rebates offered by the previous government on the revenue collection targets. The Minister also stressed the need for the up-gradation of the tax system through the use of technology. After the meeting, the Minister directed Chairman FBR to make all possible effort to achieve the revenue collection targets this year. The Chairman assured the Minister of his all possible cooperation on the matter.

The meeting was attended by senior officers of Ministry of Finance and Federal Board of Revenue.

Finance Secretary chaired a meeting of National Price Monitoring Committee

The Finance Secretary while chairing the National Price Monitoring Committee meeting here took notice of consecutive rise in SPI which monitors the prices of essential commodities on a weekly basis and desired that the provincial governments should be more vigilant in controlling prices. Their district prices control committees should play a pro-active role in checking the prices and see undue profiteering is not taking place. He also asked the Competition Commission of Pakistan to remain vigilant that no cartelization takes place.

The Chair also emphasized for additional administrative measures that prices remain under control and that the coverage of sasta/itwar bazaars for the benefits of masses should be extended. The provincial governments and other stakeholders may remain vigilant to avoid any supply shortage. Any anticipated shortfall in supply may be addressed immediately to avoid price hike.

The meeting was informed that Punjab Government has placed an excellent model for checking and controlling the prices particularly through video links in different districts. The other provinces are also making efforts in the same direction and should follow the same model.

The meeting was attended by representatives from the Provinces of Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhthunkhwa, Islamabad Capital Territory, Ministries of Industries, Commerce, National Food Security and Research, Planning Development and Reforms, Inter Provincial Coordination, Statistics Division, Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, Utility Stores Corporation and Federal Board of Revenue.

Moody's reaffirms Pakistan's credit profile as B3 Stable

Moody’s Investor Service, one of the world’s most respected and widely utilized credit rating agency, on May 18, 2018, reaffirmed Pakistan’s credit profile as B3 stable. The reaffirmation is based on the country’s strong growth performance and potential, a relatively large economy and the sustained reforms programme undertaken by the Government in the last five years. Moody’s credit analysis also highlights the greater transparency which Pakistan has achieved in its economic field besides keeping inflationary pressure to low levels and investing heavily in the energy and infrastructure sectors under the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). 

The stable outlook reflects the country’s potential to further strengthen its growth beyond current levels with successful implementation of CPEC projects, cashing in on both foreign and domestic investments, continued robust activity of large scale manufacturing and a rebounding agriculture sector all of which would aid Pakistan to shift to a higher growth trajectory on sustained basis.

Moody’s in its report also highlights the size of Pakistan’s economy, with a nominal GDP of $305 billion in fiscal 2017 – the third largest among sovereigns in B rating category – which affords the country resilience to local and external shocks. Pakistan also fares better in GDP growth among its peers with 5.8 percent growth in fiscal 2018, as compared to the median 2017 growth of 3.8 percent among B rated sovereigns.

The report refers to implementation of structural reforms and the fiscal discipline achieved by the country in recent years. Moody’s expects fiscal deficit to remain around 5.5 percent of GDP in fiscal 2018 on the back of strong revenue collection in the first six months which witnessed a 20 percent rise as compared to the corresponding year-earlier period. 

Some areas where the country requires renewing its focus are increasing the revenue base, investing in social sectors, improving competiveness, reinvigorating privatization and managing debt profile astutely. The future outlook, however, bodes well for Pakistan as the reform agenda continues and key targets of macroeconomic stability, fiscal discipline and growth supporting initiatives continue on track. Moody’s expect the country to maintain the growth momentum in the next fiscal also.

Government of Pakistan welcomes the re-affirmation of Pakistan’s sovereign rating by Moody’s Investors Service. It shows that Pakistan’s economy, despite challenges, is on a stable path to a higher growth trajectory.

Government of Pakistan Launches Shuhadas Family Welfare Account (SFWA) Scheme

Government of Pakistan has announced a Scheme to benefit the families of Shuhadas who offered sacrifices in the war on terrorism. The scheme was announced during the Budget speech for year 2017-2018. The beneficiaries include the families of Shuhadas of armed forces, law enforcement agencies and civilians. Scheme envisages payment of profit to an eligible family member of Shuhadas at a rate equivalent to given on Behbood Savings Certificates. Moreover, the profit is exempt from deduction of Withholding Tax.

The National Savings Organization framed rules under the guidance of Finance Division, which have been approved by the Federal Government and notified by the Finance Division on 11 May, 2018. The scheme will be implemented by National Savings Organization.

It is estimated that families of more than 27,000 Shuhadas can benefit from the scheme.