Pakistan’s Ministry of Commerce has invited chambers of commerce and industry associations across the country to submit proposals related to customs duties and tariff structures for the upcoming federal budget 2026-27. The ministry has asked stakeholders to present their recommendations by March 10, emphasizing the importance of data driven proposals that align with the government’s broader trade policy objectives. Officials said the consultation process aims to gather input from business groups and industry representatives before finalizing tariff adjustments for the next fiscal year. The ministry believes that incorporating feedback from trade bodies will help design a tariff framework that supports industrial development, improves competitiveness and strengthens the country’s export potential while maintaining balanced trade policies.

According to officials the ministry had earlier contacted major business chambers and trade associations through formal letters issued in December 2025 and January 2026 requesting their input on tariff reforms. These communications encouraged stakeholders to analyze the current customs duty framework and submit proposals for possible revisions in line with economic priorities. The ministry said the responses will assist policymakers in evaluating the effectiveness of existing tariff measures and identifying areas where adjustments may be required to support domestic industries and facilitate trade. Authorities expect business groups to provide detailed recommendations that reflect practical industry needs and economic realities.

To ensure consistency and efficiency in the review process the ministry has issued specific guidelines for submitting tariff proposals. Stakeholders have been instructed to use prescribed templates prepared by the Tariff Policy Centre and the Tariff Policy Wing. These templates must be completed in Microsoft Excel format so that officials can systematically review and compare submissions from different sectors. The ministry cautioned chambers and industry associations against submitting proposals in alternative formats as such submissions may not be accepted for evaluation. Officials said the structured format will allow policymakers to assess tariff recommendations more effectively and ensure that all proposals are reviewed under a standardized framework.

The ministry has also urged stakeholders to carefully examine current customs duty rates before preparing their proposals. Businesses are encouraged to provide detailed statistical evidence and market data to support any request for tariff adjustments. Officials said proposals lacking adequate data or failing to meet procedural requirements may be rejected during the review stage. The government believes that evidence based policy suggestions will help ensure that tariff reforms are transparent and aligned with economic goals. Authorities also emphasized that recommendations should reflect the broader principles outlined in the National Tariff Policy 2025 30 which aims to promote export growth and industrial efficiency while gradually rationalizing tariff structures.

Industry groups are expected to present proposals addressing both protective duties for locally manufactured products and possible concessions for raw materials used in domestic production. The ministry said detailed information must be provided when requesting higher tariffs on finished goods or reduced duties on imported inputs. Officials believe that such proposals will help policymakers strike a balance between protecting local industries and ensuring that manufacturers have access to affordable raw materials required for production. The consultation process forms part of the government’s broader efforts to develop a more competitive and transparent tariff regime ahead of the upcoming federal budget.