ISLAMABAD: In a significant move to provide economic relief, Federal Minister for Power Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari on Wednesday announced Gilgit-Baltistan tax exemptions on locally consumed imported goods. These include relief from sales tax, income tax, and excise duty.
Speaking to the media alongside Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan and traders’ representatives, Leghari thanked Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for entrusting him with chairing the committee formed on August 17, 2025. The committee reviewed GB’s trade and community concerns. Within one and a half months, it finalized practical recommendations that the Prime Minister has now approved.
Leghari praised the FBR Chairman and his team for their support. He also acknowledged the role of Gilgit-Baltistan’s political leadership. According to him, the Prime Minister gave clear directives to prioritize the welfare of GB’s people.
The minister said the approved measures will ease imports, exports, and transit trade. Moreover, they will create a better environment for the business community. “This marks an important step in Pakistan’s economic history,” he remarked, adding that it reflects the vision of inclusive development.
Leghari further recognized the contributions of senior officials, political leaders, and the GB Chamber of Commerce. He reiterated the government’s resolve to work with GB’s people for prosperity and national integration.
Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan congratulated the federal government, especially Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Minister Leghari. He said the announcement of Gilgit-Baltistan tax exemptions fulfilled a long-standing demand of the region. The CM stressed that the agreement must be implemented in letter and spirit so that all people of Gilgit-Baltistan benefit.
“This is a big step toward GB’s economic empowerment,” CM Khan stated. He also urged federal authorities to ensure the timely execution of these measures.
Meanwhile, the President of the GB Chamber of Commerce, Ashfaq Ahmed, asked traders to resume cross-border activities at the Sost border on Thursday. He expressed optimism that the tax relief will revive trade and strengthen regional ties.
Senator Saleem Mandviwala, also a committee member, said the government was concerned over the suspension of Pakistan-China trade. He noted that the committee worked hard to create a mechanism for the swift resumption of trade in the region.
