Pakistan delays FY27 budget, new date likely June 10 or 12

Pakistan’s federal government has decided not to present the fiscal year 2026-27 budget on June 5 as previously planned, with the budget now likely to be unveiled on June 10 or June 12, according to government sources. Sources said the government has withdrawn the June 5 budget presentation date, though a final decision on the revised schedule is expected later Tuesday. No official announcement has been made. The development comes after the postponement of a meeting of the National Economic Council (NEC), the country's highest economic decision-making body, which had been scheduled for Wednesday under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. According to sources, the revised budget timetable is linked to upcoming elections in Gilgit-Baltistan. Officials may also require additional time to complete consultations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on key budget matters, including the size and composition of the federal development program. The budget for FY2026-27 is being finalized amid ongoing discussions with the IMF as Pakistan seeks to maintain fiscal discipline while supporting development spending and economic growth. The government is expected to announce the final budget presentation date and a revised schedule for pre-budget meetings in the coming days.