Event Overview
Policy Research Institute of Market Economy (PRIME) hosted the Fourth Pakistan Prosperity Forum on 14th November 2024, centered around the theme “Tax Policy for Growth.” The event brought together leading policymakers, international experts, economists, and business leaders to discuss reform-oriented tax strategies for sustainable economic growth.

Keynote speaker Mr. Aleksi Aleksishvili, former Finance Minister of Georgia, shared insights on Georgia’s successful tax reforms, emphasizing simplification, institutional coherence, and strong political commitment. He highlighted that Georgia’s tax system was reduced to six core taxes and implemented through a streamlined institutional structure. Free trade agreements with major regions including the EU and China further supported growth and competitiveness.

Mr. Ali Pervaiz Malik, Minister of State for Finance, Revenue, and Power, underscored the importance of inclusivity, resilience, and sustainability in economic policymaking. He outlined the government’s tax reform agenda, including the digitalization of FBR and data-driven approaches to expanding the tax base.

Mr. Muzammil Aslam, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Finance Minister, called for increased provincial efforts in agricultural tax collection, while Mr. Rizwan Rawji, supply-side economist, raised concerns over the fiscal impact of state-owned enterprises and high interest rates.

Other notable speakers included Mr. Arshad Dad (Constructors Association of Pakistan), who advocated reform of the minimum tax regime; Dr. Ali Salman (Executive Director, PRIME), who criticized inconsistent tax policies; and Dr. Mahmood Khalid, who proposed the elimination of tax exemptions to enhance revenues and tax equity.

The Forum served as a platform for evidence-based dialogue, aimed at shaping a more coherent, growth-oriented tax policy framework for Pakistan.