Times of Pakistan

Bilal Kiyani holds budget consultations with key industry stakeholders

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Minister of State for Finance and Revenue, Bilal Azhar Kayani on Tuesday chaired separate consultative meetings with delegations from Nestlé Pakistan and Philip Morris International (PMI) as part of the government’s ongoing stakeholder engagement process for the preparation of the Federal Budget 2026–27

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 5th May, 2026) Minister of State for Finance and Revenue, Bilal Azhar Kayani on Tuesday chaired separate consultative meetings with delegations from Nestlé Pakistan and Philip Morris International (PMI) as part of the government’s ongoing stakeholder engagement process for the preparation of the Federal Budget 2026–27.

In his meeting with a delegation from Nestlé Pakistan, led by its Chief Executive Officer discussions were held on the broader taxation framework, regulatory environment, and measures aimed at improving efficiency, transparency, and ease of doing business in the consumer goods sector.

The potential impact of policy reforms on market functioning, documentation, and consumer welfare also came under consideration.

On the occasion, the Nestle delegation shared its perspective on key sectoral challenges and offered input on policy approaches that could support improved compliance, streamline tax administration, and enhance transparency in pricing mechanisms.

The discussion highlighted the importance of aligning fiscal measures with the objectives of strengthening revenue mobilisation while ensuring a conducive environment for sustainable business growth and consumer protection.

Kiyani appreciated the constructive engagement and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a consultative and inclusive approach to policy formulation. He assured the participants that their input would be carefully examined in the context of the upcoming budget, in line with the government’s broader fiscal and economic priorities.

Meanwhile, the state minister was called on by a high-level delegation from Philip Morris International (PMI) to discuss the evolving economic landscape and the company’s role in the national industrial sector.

The delegation, led by President CIS & Central Asia, Marco Mariotti, provided a comprehensive briefing on the organization’s substantial economic footprint and its contributions to Pakistan’s export and tax base.

The dialogue focused on the broader scope of economic cooperation and the necessity of maintaining a stable fiscal environment for large-scale international investors.

Both parties discussed the importance of addressing sector-specific challenges to ensure the sustainability of national revenue and the continued viability of legitimate commercial operations.

The delegation reaffirmed its support for government strategies aimed at strengthening market regulations and curbing informal trade practices.

Kayani emphasized the government’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly climate that encourages foreign direct investment (FDI) and ensures a level playing field for all industrial stakeholders.

He noted that the administration’s focus remains on stabilizing the economy through robust enforcement of trade regulations and the implementation of sustainable fiscal policies.

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