Shehbaz Sharif has turned down a series of tax proposals presented by the country’s economic team, making it clear that no mini budget will be introduced in the near term.

According to officials from the Finance Ministry, the proposals were aimed at addressing a revenue gap through additional taxation. However, the prime minister directed authorities to refrain from imposing new taxes and instead prioritize measures that provide relief to the public.

He also rejected a suggestion to present the federal budget in the final week of May, instructing that no mini budget or new tax measures be introduced before June.

Among the proposals under consideration was the imposition of sales tax on petroleum products to increase revenue, particularly amid rising global oil prices linked to tensions in the Middle East. The prime minister noted that such a move would place further financial strain on citizens already facing high fuel costs.

Additionally, he stressed the importance of engaging with the International Monetary Fund to seek economic relief under the current circumstances.

The premier has directed the economic team to focus on public-friendly policies in the upcoming budget, which is now expected to be presented in early to mid-June, reflecting revised priorities based on the prevailing economic situation.