ISLAMABAD – The Standing Committee of the National Assembly on Privatization has approved a proposal to exempt airlines from sales tax on imported goods for 15 years.
The exemption would apply to all airlines, including Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), and is expected to take effect from the upcoming federal budget.
The standing committee met at Parliament House, under the chairmanship of MNA Muhammad Farooq Sattar. It took up the agenda items for consideration.
The Committee reviewed the implementation status of its previous recommendations and sought updates from the concerned ministry/departments, and organizations. It emphasized the need for timely and effective implementation of its recommendations and directed the concerned quarters to ensure the prompt provision of complete, accurate, and updated information, along with necessary follow-up action.
The Committee was given a comprehensive briefing on the current status and proposed course of action regarding Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited (ZTBL). The Committee was informed that the Federal Cabinet had approved the inclusion of ZTBL in the Privatisation Programme (2024–29) on August 13, 2024, following which the Privatisation Commission Board classified ZTBL as a Major Privatisation and initiated the process for its privatization.
The Committee also considered matters relating to the proposed privatization of Distribution Companies (DISCOs) and sought detailed information on the progress, process, and related developments.
The Committee underscored the importance of transparency, due diligence, and strict adherence to prescribed rules and procedures throughout the privatization process. It further recommended that, in the event of privatization, the employment status, service rights, and legitimate interests of existing employees be fully protected in accordance with the applicable laws, rules, and regulations.
