IBA Hosts Seminar on Federal Budget 2026-27, Sparking Discussion on Economic Reforms

KARACHI: IBA hosted a seminar on the Federal Budget 2026-27, gathering economists, policymakers, and public finance experts to discuss its implications for Pakistan's economy and various fiscal reforms. The seminar focused on key issues such as taxation, trade, and investment, aiming to foster a deeper understanding of the budget's impact on national economic policy.

According to Center For Information and Communication Technologies, the session began with a welcome note by Dr. Lubna Naz, Director of the Center for Business & Economic Research at IBA, who stressed the necessity of ongoing policy dialogue and academic collaboration with policymakers. IBA Karachi's Executive Director, Dr. S Akbar Zaidi, further highlighted the institution's commitment to fostering informed discussions on pressing economic issues and increasing student participation in public policy debates.

Ammar Habib, Assistant Professor of Practice, moderated the event, featuring a panel with Khurram Schehzad, Advisor to the Finance Minister; Dr. Ali Salman, CEO of PRIME; Dr. Ali Hasanain, Associate Professor at LUMS; Dr. Zehra Farooq, Staff Officer at FBR; and Dr. Aadil Nakhoda, Assistant Professor at SESS. Discussions revolved around fiscal stability, investment promotion, and industrial reforms, with insights on tariff reforms, trade policies, revenue mobilization, and digital initiatives by the Federal Board of Revenue.

The seminar concluded with an interactive Q&A session, underscoring IBA's dedication to promoting evidence-based dialogue and informed policymaking on crucial national issues.