Global Budget Procedures in 2026: An Overview

In 2026, countries around the world are actively working on their national budgets. Each nation follows its own schedule and procedures for discussing and approving their financial plans for the upcoming year. In India, the Budget Session of Parliament started on January 28, 2026. It is scheduled to end on April 2, 2026. During this period, the Indian Parliament discusses and finalizes the budget for the fiscal year 2026–27. On February 1, 2026, the Finance Minister presented the Union Budget for this year. This presentation is an important event that outlines the country's planned income and spending. Sri Lanka has already completed several key steps in its budget process. The first reading of the Appropriation Bill for 2026 was presented to the Parliament on September 26, 2025. Following this, the second reading took place on November 7, 2025. During this session, the President delivered the Budget Speech, explaining the government's financial plans. The debate on the bill's details was held from November 15 to December 5, 2025. On December 5, 2025, the Parliament conducted a vote on the Appropriation Bill, which is a crucial step in approving the government’s spending plans for the year. Malaysia’s budget process for 2026 was also in full swing. The Dewan Rakyat, which is the lower house of Parliament, started its third meeting of the 15th Parliament’s fourth term on October 4, 2025. The main focus was on reviewing the 2026 Budget. On October 10, 2025, Prime Minister and Finance Minister Anwar Ibrahim presented the Supply Bill for 2026. The Malaysian Parliament continued discussing the bill until December 4, 2025. During this period, discussions included detailed policy debates, and ministers responded over four days starting October 29. In South Africa, the process of debating the budget began earlier, with Mini-Plenaries in the National Assembly starting on June 27, 2024. These are smaller, focused meetings before full debate sessions, helping to prepare the lawmakers for the main discussions. Kenya launched its public hearings process for the 2026/27 financial year. This important step took place on November 19, 2025, at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre. These hearings allow the public and stakeholders to give input on the government’s budget plans, making the process more transparent. Trinidad and Tobago also presented its budget for the 2025/2026 fiscal year. The Budget Presentation was made on October 13, 2025. This marks the main event where the government shares its financial direction and spending plans for the upcoming year. As of February 15, 2026, there is no official information available about specific debate schedules and budget presentation dates for other countries’ 2026–27 fiscal years. Many nations are still in various stages of their budget procedures, which are essential for funding government services, infrastructure, and development projects. This detailed process in multiple countries shows the importance of budget planning in national governance. It ensures transparency, allows input from different stakeholders, and helps set financial priorities for the year ahead. Each country’s approach may differ, but the goal remains the same: to create a clear and effective financial plan for the nation’s future.