The federal government is likely to delay the presentation of the 2026-27 budget for a second time, with June 12 now emerging as the most probable date instead of the previously scheduled June 10.
The possible postponement comes as key budgetary matters remain unresolved and consultations among stakeholders continue, according to Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal. A final decision on the revised schedule is expected within the next couple of days.
Meanwhile, the meeting of the National Economic Council has also been postponed until tomorrow, while preparations have been completed for the release of the Economic Survey for the current fiscal year, which is scheduled to be issued tomorrow evening.
Speaking to the media at Parliament House on Monday, Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal said that several important budget-related matters have yet to be finalized, prompting consideration of a change in the budget presentation date.
He said consultations on various issues are ongoing, and the limited timeframe, along with the approaching month of Muharram, has further complicated the process.
He added that many aspects of the budget are still being finalized, but no final decision has yet been made regarding a change in the budget presentation date.
Ahsan Iqbal further said that negotiations between the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) regarding the Public Sector Development Program (PSDP) have been completed, and the coalition partners have reached a consensus on the distribution of development funds.
