Pakistan posted a budget surplus of Rs 2.1 trillion, equivalent to 1.6% of GDP, during the first quarter (July-September) of the current fiscal year, according to a Finance Division report.
The consolidated federal and provincial fiscal operations showed total revenue of Rs 6.2 trillion (4.8% of GDP) against total expenditure of Rs 4.1 trillion (3.1% of GDP), resulting in a surplus of Rs 2.1 trillion. The primary balance also recorded a surplus of Rs 3.5 trillion (2.7% of GDP).
Federal revenue of Rs 6.1 trillion included FBR tax collection of Rs 2.88 trillion and non-tax revenue of Rs 3.046 trillion, comprising profits from the State Bank of Pakistan, dividends, mark-ups, defence receipts, petroleum and gas levies, and other sources.
Total expenditure of Rs 4.047 trillion included interest payments of Rs 1.38 trillion, pensions, civil administration costs, defence, subsidies, and grants.
Provincial governments collectively posted a surplus of Rs 781 billion, with expenditures of Rs 1.44 trillion and revenues of Rs 2.22 trillion. Punjab recorded a surplus of Rs 441 billion, with revenues of Rs 1.021 trillion against expenditures of Rs 579.8 billion.
This strong fiscal performance reflects improved revenue collection and controlled spending,
