By: ABID SIDDIQUE CHAUDHRY
The World Ambassador
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Islamabad: Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, on Tuesday met a senior delegation of Nestlé Pakistan in Islamabad and reiterated the government’s strong commitment to economic reforms, expansion of the transparent tax net, and promotion of a formal economy.
The finance minister said that improvements in the tax collection system, actions against the informal economy, and better governance are sending positive signals to both the banking sector and the private sector. He emphasized that these measures are crucial for sustainable economic stability.
Tax Policy Office — A Key Structural Reform
Senator Aurangzeb highlighted the recent establishment of the Tax Policy Office, describing it as a major structural reform. He said the office will play a central role in tax policy formulation, consultation with industry, and implementation of continuous reforms. He added that ongoing actions against the informal sector are already yielding positive results and will be accelerated further in the future.
Nestlé Pakistan’s Progress and Economic Contribution
The Nestlé Pakistan delegation, led by CEO Jason Avanceña, briefed the government on the company’s long-term plans, local sourcing strategy, advanced automation, and sustainable production systems.
The company shared that it has significantly reduced imports over the past three years, which has not only supported local industry but also contributed to greater economic stability in Pakistan.
The finance minister appreciated Nestlé’s localization efforts and welcomed close collaboration with the Tax Policy Office to enhance tax collection, address sectoral issues, and strengthen domestic industry.
Discussion on Regional Trade and Exports
The meeting also covered Pakistan’s regional trade prospects, new corridors with Central Asia, export opportunities, and supply chain improvements. These factors were discussed in the broader context of global geopolitics and Pakistan’s strategic geographic position.
Upcoming Engagement at Davos
Nestlé’s global leadership is expected to meet the Prime Minister of Pakistan at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos in the coming weeks. Discussions will focus on future investment, sustainability, agricultural reforms, child nutrition, and expanding capacity in dairy production.
Senator Aurangzeb assured continued government support to the private sector for policy stability, business confidence, adoption of modern technology, and sustainable industrial growth.
Pakistan’s Reform Agenda and Global Cooperation
Pakistan is actively engaging with international financial institutions, development partners, and major regional and global corporations on its agenda of economic cooperation, tax reforms, formalization of the economy, and investment promotion.
In this context, growing confidence and local investment by multinational companies like Nestlé are being seen as positive signs for Pakistan’s economic recovery.
