Commerce Ministry says it can cope even with a 50% budget cut

Pakistan’s Commerce Ministry told a Senate committee that it is prepared to keep functioning even if its non-development budget is reduced by half in the next fiscal year, reflecting the government’s growing concern over fiscal pressure.

During the briefing, officials said fourth-quarter non-employee expenditure releases had already been cut by 20 percent and further tightening is expected in FY2026-27. Commerce Secretary Jawad Paul said the ministry would adjust its spending plans if deeper cuts are imposed.

The ministry has proposed Rs. 1.707 billion for its own operational heads, slightly above the current year, while seeking much larger support for attached trade bodies and export-related schemes. Senators also reviewed requests for TDAP, PITAD, DGTO, TDRO, the National Tariff Commission, and funding for trade support programs.

The committee approved the ministry’s budgetary demands and also backed funding for the Quetta Expo Centre project, though lawmakers said the site issue must be settled first with the Balochistan government.