LAHORE (Dunya News) - Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb said on Saturday that legislation has enacted to make the assets of government employees public, clarifying that this step is a practical reform rather than an additional condition imposed by the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Addressing a ceremony in Lahore, the finance minister said the IMF had advised Pakistan to bring government officials’ assets into the public domain, and the government has responded through concrete legal measures.
Minister stated that next year’s federal budget would be framed by policymakers rather than the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), stressing that all sectors must contribute to exports and economic growth.
Muhammad Aurangzeb announced that the government is in the process of shutting down PASSCO, calling it a hub of corruption. He said wheat meant for FATA and PATA was being diverted back and sold elsewhere, and emphasized the need to acknowledge positive reforms to keep the economy moving forward.
The finance minister noted that he had already responded to the IMF report in the Senate and highlighted that the formal sector has urged the government to act against non-compliant segments of the economy. He underlined that job creation is the responsibility of the private sector, while the government’s role is to facilitate growth.
He said creating a supportive environment for startups and young entrepreneurs remains a priority, with digital economy initiatives and e-commerce expanding business activity. Efforts to widen the tax net, introduce automation, and improve transparency have helped build trust among taxpayers.
Muhammad Aurangzeb also said inflation remains under control and announced that the auction of the national airline is scheduled for December 23, adding that investor confidence is gradually being restored due to consistent economic reforms.