The Pakistani government has decided to impose a sales tax on stationery items, despite Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb’s earlier announcement that the exemption would continue.

During the budget debate for the next fiscal year, Aurangzeb had stated that the sales tax exemptions for stationery items would be maintained.

Sources have told Business Recorder that the amended Finance Bill 2024 will include a sales tax on these items.

This decision has sparked criticism, as many believe it will burden students and families already struggling with the rising cost of education.

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The government has not yet provided an official explanation for the change in policy.