Traders Illegally Increasing Solar Panel Prices Will Be Punished: Finance Minister

The federal government has warned traders against unjustified increases in solar panel prices. Addressing the National Assembly, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb said the government had lowered the general sales tax on solar panels to 10 percent to promote affordability and investment in clean energy. He expressed concern that some traders were still raising prices arbitrarily. Aurangzeb stressed that any unauthorized price manipulation would be dealt with firmly. He also announced that starting July 1, imported solar panels will face a 4.6 percent increase in price due to the revised 10 percent import duty. This reduction follows recommendations from both houses of Parliament to boost solar adoption. Wrapping up the Senate debate on the Finance Bill 2025-26, Aurangzeb said the budget reflects fiscal discipline, public welfare measures, and efforts to curb inflation, build reserves, and improve the current account. He highlighted that federal expenditures are projected to grow by only 1.9 percent in the next fiscal year, down from the 10-12 percent annual increases seen previously. The finance minister assured the government’s commitment to sustainable economic growth.