By Digital Spartans 
The Punjab government has announced the removal of stamp duty on property transfers related to company mergers and restructuring schemes, aiming to reduce costs and streamline corporate transactions across the province.
The exemption applies specifically to schemes of arrangement approved either by the courts or the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan, effectively lifting a significant financial burden for businesses engaged in restructuring or mergers.
Officials say the move is designed to facilitate corporate restructuring, enhance operational efficiency, and attract greater investment into Punjab. By easing the tax load on such transactions, the government intends to encourage companies to reorganize and expand without facing prohibitive fiscal barriers.
The decision follows a ruling by the Lahore High Court that examined the applicability of stamp duty on these types of corporate property transfers. The court’s interpretation reinforced the need for a policy that aligns taxation with the broader economic goals of fostering business growth.
Legal and business experts have welcomed the move, noting that the exemption will improve liquidity for companies, support strategic mergers, and contribute to a more competitive corporate environment. Investors are expected to view the province more favorably due to the reduced transactional costs.
This step is part of a broader effort by Punjab authorities to create a more business-friendly environment, encouraging entrepreneurship, corporate restructuring, and long-term investment in the province’s economy.