Federal Budget 2025-26 Could Get Delayed Again [Updated]

Update: The federal government has finalized the date for presenting the national budget for the fiscal year 2025-26, ending speculation over potential delays. Finance Secretary Imdadullah Bosal confirmed that the federal budget will be tabled in the National Assembly on June 10. ……………………………………………………………………………………… The federal government is likely to postpone the presentation of the Budget 2025–26 to June 12 due to Eid ul-Azha holidays and scheduling challenges. Eid is expected to fall on June 7, 8 and 9 (Saturday, Sunday and Monday), and authorities are trying to declare June 9, the third day of Eid, a working day. But conducting both the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting and releasing the Economic Survey 2025 on June 9 is too complicated. Advisor to the Finance Minister Khurram Schehzad told ProPakistani that no decision has been taken to further extend the budget date. The NEC meeting typically lasts a full day and includes the participation of all four provincial chief ministers, the prime minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and representatives from Gilgit-Baltistan. Traditionally, the federal budget is presented two days after the NEC meeting. Given the scheduling overlap, the budget can be tabled on June 12. The budget was already delayed earlier this month from June 2 to June 10. Considering everything, several key decisions remain pending, so it won’t be a surprise if the FY26 budget ends up getting delayed once again. The Annual Plan Coordination Committee (APCC) will meet ahead of the upcoming NEC session to finalize the federal development program and the Annual Plan for the next fiscal year. The APCC will set key development targets, including GDP growth and sectoral benchmarks for agriculture, industry, and services. These targets and plans will then be submitted for approval at the NEC meeting. On budget day, the federal cabinet will formally approve all budgetary targets.