Maps
Magazine

TRADE & ECONOMY

PM Shehbaz Refuses IMF's Agriculture Tax Demand, Condemns Israeli Attack on Iran
PM Shehbaz says no taxes on Pakistan’s struggling agriculture—IMF accepts stance. Also slams Israeli attack on Iran as “open aggression,” urges global action.
ND
by News Desk
2025-06-18
PM Shehbaz Refuses IMF's Agriculture Tax Demand, Condemns Israeli Attack on Iran

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has firmly opposed the imposition of taxes on Pakistan’s agricultural sector, telling the International Monetary Fund (IMF) that the sector is already under severe pressure and cannot bear additional fiscal burdens.

Speaking during a meeting of the federal cabinet, the prime minister revealed that he had personally conveyed this stance to the IMF, and the global lender had accepted Pakistan’s argument. “I have told the IMF that I will not allow taxes to be imposed on agriculture. Our farmers are already facing great difficulties,” he said.

The move comes at a time when the government is in negotiations with the IMF for a new loan program, and widespread concerns have been raised about the impact of austerity measures on key economic sectors.

In the same cabinet meeting, PM Shehbaz also strongly condemned the recent Israeli military aggression against Iran, calling it an “open attack” on a brotherly neighboring country.

He noted that the assault had resulted in the martyrdom and injury of hundreds of Iranians and reiterated Pakistan’s firm condemnation at all diplomatic and public forums.

“On the very first day, I contacted Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian and expressed Pakistan’s solidarity with the Iranian people,” the Prime Minister said. “I have called upon the international community to take urgent steps to prevent further escalation and end the war.”

The remarks come amid heightened regional tensions and growing global concern over the implications of continued Israeli military action.

PM Shehbaz’s dual statements underline Pakistan’s domestic priorities and foreign policy stance—defending vulnerable local sectors while maintaining solidarity with regional allies in times of crisis.

 
Tagged:

PakistanEconomy

IMFDeal

AgricultureTax

PMShahbaz
Share News: