Reaction of Khaqan Waheed Khawaja, Chairman Pakistan Awami Quwat, on the Federal Budget 2026-27

The Federal Budget 2026-27 has fallen short of public expectations. It appears to have been formulated primarily under IMF conditions and fiscal constraints, prioritizing financial targets over public welfare, inflation relief, and sustainable economic growth. Despite soaring inflation, rising unemployment, and growing challenges for businesses, the budget offers little meaningful relief to the people. Even the limited concessions announced for salaried individuals are insufficient when compared to the prevailing economic realities.

While the government has presented this as a growth and export-oriented budget, there is no clear or effective strategy to promote industry, the IT sector, exports, or small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Essential measures to attract foreign investment, strengthen local industries, and stimulate economic activity are noticeably lacking, making it difficult to see how the government’s claims will translate into tangible results.

This budget is particularly disappointing for the youth, as it fails to introduce any significant policies aimed at job creation, entrepreneurship, or skills development. Although the government may be attempting to stabilize the economy in the short term, the budget does not contain the bold reforms needed to break the cycle of debt, lay the foundation for sustainable growth, and ease the hardships faced by ordinary citizens. For these reasons, Pakistan Awami Quwat believes that this budget does not align with the aspirations of the people or the economic needs of the nation.

Khaqan Waheed Khawaja
Chairman, Pakistan Awami Quwat