Economists, academics, policymakers and financial sector representatives gathered at Superior University’s CARBS Business Policy Lab to discuss Pakistan’s economic challenges and policy priorities ahead of the federal budget for 2026-27, emphasizing tax reforms, increased social sector spending and measures to curb brain drain.
The Pre-Budget Roundtable Discussion 2026-27, organized under the theme “Industry Challenges, Academic Insights and Policy Solutions,” was led by Dr Mahwish Zafar and brought together experts from leading universities, financial institutions, government bodies and policy circles to develop recommendations for the upcoming budget.
Representatives from the University of Lahore, University of Central Punjab, Riphah International University, Lahore College for Women University and Gulab Devi Educational Complex participated in the discussion. Officials from the financial sector, including FTAC and Meezan Bank, also attended the event.
Punjab Minister for Local Government and Community Development Zeeshan Rafique and Punjab Social Protection Authority Vice Chairperson Jahan Ara Wattoo attended as distinguished guests and engaged with participants on key economic and social development issues.
During the roundtable, participants stressed the need for a fair and balanced taxation framework that would ease the burden on citizens while supporting economic growth. Experts observed that excessively high tax rates could discourage business activity and hinder economic performance, whereas an efficient and equitable tax system could broaden the tax base, improve compliance and enhance government revenues.
The discussion also highlighted the importance of increasing public investment in education, healthcare, sanitation and research and development. Participants noted that long-term national progress depends on strengthening human capital, promoting innovation and supporting knowledge-based economic growth.
A major focus of the session was the growing challenge of brain drain. Experts called for the creation of better employment opportunities, stronger research support mechanisms and entrepreneurship incentives to retain skilled professionals and talented young people within Pakistan.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Mahwish Zafar said the roundtable aimed to bring together academia, industry and policymakers on a common platform to generate evidence-based and practical policy recommendations. She emphasized that collaborative dialogue among stakeholders is essential for improving economic policymaking and achieving sustainable national development.
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The session concluded with participants reaffirming their commitment to contributing to policy discourse and offering people-centric recommendations for future budgets aimed at promoting economic stability, inclusive growth and sustainable development across Pakistan.
