Pakistan’s federal budget for the 2026-27 financial year has faced criticism from citizens who say it does little to ease the financial pressures created by persistent inflation, rising utility bills and broader economic uncertainty.

The government recently announced a budget of around USD 67.5 billion, presenting it as an effort to maintain fiscal discipline and stabilise the economy. However, several residents in Karachi said the measures announced offer limited relief to households already struggling with the rising cost of living.

Government Highlights Economic Stability Measures

Presenting the budget in the National Assembly, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb said Pakistan had achieved important economic milestones despite challenges arising from regional and global developments.

The budget allocates higher spending for defence while reducing expenditure on development programmes.

The government has also proposed tax relief for salaried individuals, describing the budget as part of broader efforts to strengthen economic stability.

Residents Voice Concerns Over Rising Cost of Living

Despite the government’s measures, many citizens in Karachi expressed disappointment, arguing that the budget has failed to address the concerns of low- and middle-income families.

Residents pointed to increased taxes on several commonly used consumer goods, saying the changes would further add to household expenses.

One resident criticised the budget, saying that although authorities had spoken of providing relief, taxes had been increased on items such as milk, shampoo and other daily necessities.

According to him, people require affordable access to essential commodities, including flour, lentils, cooking oil and dairy products, but the budget offers little assistance in that regard.

Citizens said the rising prices of food items, dairy products and household goods continue to place significant strain on family finances.

Healthcare Expenses Add to Financial Pressure

Healthcare costs have emerged as another major concern among residents.

A Karachi resident suffering from heart disease and diabetes said the cost of medicines had risen more than threefold in recent years, making treatment increasingly difficult to afford.

He said the latest budget would place additional pressure on ordinary citizens while offering limited support to vulnerable sections of society.

Several residents argued that the government had failed to adequately address the needs of people already struggling to cope with inflation and rising living expenses across the country.

The criticism comes as Pakistan continues to grapple with economic challenges and attempts to balance fiscal consolidation with the need to provide relief to households facing persistent price pressures.

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