The federal government has decided to increase sales tax on stationery items to 18% under the Finance Bill 2026, marking a sharp rise in the cost of basic school and office supplies.

According to official sources cited by Business Recorder, the proposal has been finalized and has already received approval from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Once implemented, the new tax rate will take effect from July 1, 2026. At present, stationery products are taxed at 10%, meaning the government is effectively adding an 8% increase.

The move is expected to raise the cost of items such as notebooks, pens, paper, and other educational materials, potentially increasing financial pressure on students and households across the country.