KARACHI: June 9,2026: The Lasbela Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has urged the federal government to introduce major reforms in taxation, energy, trade, and investment policies in Budget 2026-27. According to the chamber, these measures can revive industry, attract investment, and restore business confidence.
LCCI said Pakistan’s economic recovery depends on a competitive and predictable business environment. Therefore, it aligned its recommendations with the government’s goal of promoting industrialization and creating jobs.
First, the chamber proposed a multi-year macroeconomic stabilization framework. It called for clear targets to reduce inflation and fiscal deficits. In addition, it urged the government to adopt a transparent foreign exchange policy to strengthen investor confidence and ensure policy consistency.
On taxation, LCCI demanded an end to ad hoc tax measures. It also recommended gradually reducing corporate tax rates to match regional competitors. Furthermore, it called for rationalizing withholding taxes, simplifying tax procedures, and introducing time-bound dispute resolution mechanisms for local and foreign investors.
To attract foreign direct investment (FDI), the chamber proposed targeted incentives for export-oriented industries, high-value manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, agro-processing, and mineral value-added sectors. Moreover, it recommended fast-track one-window approval services for major investment projects.
Meanwhile, LCCI expressed concern over rising energy costs. Therefore, it called for competitive long-term power purchase agreements, timely subsidies for vulnerable industries, and faster adoption of renewable energy solutions to reduce electricity tariffs.
The chamber also emphasized the need to strengthen exports. It urged the government to speed up duty drawback and tax refund payments. In addition, it called for modernizing ports and customs operations through digitalization and round-the-clock services. It also recommended securing preferential market access agreements with key trading partners.
To improve access to finance, LCCI proposed credit guarantee schemes and refinance facilities for exporters. Furthermore, it called for expanding SME and green financing programs. It also urged the government to allocate dedicated resources for SME incubators, industrial clusters, and special economic zones with streamlined land allotment procedures.
At the same time, the chamber highlighted the importance of workforce development and technological advancement. It recommended tax credits for employee training programs, industry-academia research grants, and incentives for automation and digital transformation.
Moreover, LCCI called for greater public investment in broadband infrastructure and tax incentives for environmentally sustainable and digital initiatives. It also urged reforms in public procurement procedures to ensure timely payments to suppliers and SME contractors.
Finally, the chamber asked the government to publish impact assessments of major fiscal measures and adopt outcome-based budgeting. According to LCCI, these steps will improve transparency and enhance the effectiveness of industrial support programs.