*ISLAMABAD: Minister for Economic Affairs Hammad Azhar on Tuesday said thatforeign direct investment increased by 137 per cent due to prudent policiesof the incumbent government.*
Highlighting the achievement of the PTI government on the economic front,Hammad Azhar addressing a news conference in Islamabad, here today, saidcurrent account deficit in the first quarter of the current fiscal year hasdecreased by 65 percent, fiscal deficit declined by 50 percent, primarybudget balance noted a surplus of 385 billion rupees, foreign investment of350 million dollars came to Pakistan, and foreign exchange reserveswitnessed an increase of 650 million dollars.
The minister said collection of Federal Board of Revenue (FBR)link has increased and tax base enhanced by 55percent and growing circular debt brought down from 38 billion to 12billion rupees per month.
He said ease of doing business index improved by 28 points and the stockmarket witnessed a growth of 6500 points. He said Public Sector DevelopmentProgrammes’ releases have been doubled and exports are also improving.
Mr. Azhar said exports of readymade garments increased by 38 percent, rice52 percent and footwear 54 percent.
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Responding to a question, the minister said the government is introducingreforms and automation in the Federal Board of Revenue but none of theemployees is being deprived of job.
To another question, he said the federal government is collaborating withprovincial governments to control food items prices.
