Following concerns over speculated changes in net metering and potential taxes on solar products, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif clarified that the federal government will not levy additional duties on solar panels. This decision aims to ensure continued access to affordable energy for all citizens.
The clarification came amidst discussions about replacing solar net metering with “gross metering” and reports suggesting new taxes on solar products that could reduce the financial benefits of generating in-house power.
Prime Minister Shehbaz emphasized the government’s commitment to steering the national economy towards positive growth and expressed satisfaction with progress towards economic stability.
In a recent federal cabinet meeting in Islamabad, key decisions were made to prioritize boosting exports through Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and withdrawing privileges from the elite and those exploiting national resources. Economic protection and equal opportunities for the common man remain top priorities for the government.
Additionally, the cabinet was briefed on the swift progress of PIA’s privatization, with bidding for the national flag carrier scheduled for the first week of August. The Prime Minister emphasized the need for transparency throughout the privatization process.
Regarding economic matters, the cabinet was assured that the country has ample sugar stocks. The Sugar Advisory Board and relevant departments approved the export of surplus sugar after considering expected consumption before the next crushing season. PM Shehbaz directed the formation of a committee to monitor sugar prices and prevent any unjustified increase.
Other decisions included approving the transit of a humanitarian aid truck from Karachi to Kabul, signing an MoU between the Ministry of Religious Affairs of Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, extending the implementation committee’s timeframe on the immovable property of the late Ameer of Bahawalpur, and appointing the Executive Director of the Frequency Allocation Board.
Furthermore, the cabinet endorsed various decisions by the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC), Cabinet Committee on Legislative Cases, and Cabinet Committee on State-Owned Enterprises.
These decisions reflect the government’s proactive approach to economic management and policy implementation.