Government notifies new public procurement rules as IMF mission holds talks in Islamabad
The Public Procurement Rules 2026 replace the 2004 rules, make the e-PADS system mandatory and add blacklisting and appeals, as IMF talks on $1.2bn continue.
Economy
The latest Economy news, reporting and analysis from The Indus Compass.
FPCCI asks FBR to extend tax return deadline to October 31, citing IRIS portal glitches
With returns due on September 30, the FPCCI wants a one-month extension, saying slowdowns on the FBR's IRIS portal are stopping taxpayers from filing.
IMF talks begin in Islamabad to unlock Pakistan's next $1.2bn
An IMF mission led by Iva Petrova begins the fourth EFF and third RSF reviews today. Success would release about $1.2bn by late November or early December.
Government not buying planes for privatised PIA and no sovereign guarantee given, says PM's finance adviser
Khurram Schehzad said the state is neither buying aircraft for the privatised PIA nor guaranteeing loans, after claims linked to talks with the US Exim Bank.
Inflation expected to ease slightly in September, but oil prices keep risks high
Analysts expect consumer inflation of 10.25–10.75pc in September, down from 11.1pc in August, but warn the Gulf conflict and fuel prices could push it higher.
FBR launches 'faceless' tax audit centre to end face-to-face contact between officials and taxpayers
The FBR's new faceless centre will pick tax audits by computer and split every case between three anonymous officers to curb discretion.
PM Shehbaz tells US business leaders Pakistan's economy is stable and moving towards growth
In New York, PM Shehbaz Sharif told US business leaders the economy has stabilised and pitched agriculture, mining, IT and privatisation to investors.