Pakistan, June 13 -- Pakistan's business leaders community has offered a mixed reaction to the federal budget for FY2026-27, welcoming selected tax relief measures while criticizing the absence of a clear roadmap for industrial growth, exports and investment.

Leaders from major trade and industry bodies said the Rs18.7 trillion budget contains some positive steps but falls short of addressing structural challenges facing the economy. Concerns were particularly raised over high energy costs, weak investment levels and the lack of incentives for export-oriented industries.

Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry President Atif Ikram Sheikh acknowledged measures such as reductions in super tax, relief for salaried individu...