ISLAMABAD – Federal government in the forthcoming mini-budget is expectedto announce additional revenue measures of up to Rs150 billion, said areport released by *Topline Securities.*
During the first half (July-December) of the current financial year2018-19, the revenue shortfall of the Federal Board of Revenue reachedRs170 billion, said the report.
It added the hike in interest rate by 425 basis points and rupeedevaluation of 24% since December 2017 have cumulatively increased annualdebt servicing requirement of government by Rs700-800 billion.
According to reports, the government is considering standardizing sales taxon petroleum products likely at 17%, said Topline.
Also, amongst other measures the government is mulling to increase federalexcise duty (FED) on cement, beverages, cigarettes and vehicles (1600cc andabove) are under consideration as per media outlets, it highlighted.
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The brokerage house said rumours are making rounds regarding hike ingeneral sales tax (GST), where every 1 percentage point could raise up toRs70-80 billion for the public exchequer.
To enhance exports, the relief measures include reducing duties on theimported raw material of export-oriented sectors, said Topline.
