Pakistan is set on a path toward sustainable economic growth, moving from reactive policymaking to a forward-looking, reform-driven approach, according to Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb. Addressing the inaugural session of The Future Summit’s 9th edition in Karachi, the Minister outlined the government’s strategies to stabilize the economy, restore investor confidence, and position Pakistan for long-term development.
In his address, Senator Aurangzeb emphasized that macroeconomic stability, while essential, is only a foundation for sustained growth. Highlighting structural reforms, fiscal discipline, and strategic partnerships, he underscored the government’s commitment to redefining Pakistan’s economic trajectory. Drawing on recent engagements in Washington and Riyadh, he noted that global economies are displaying greater resilience than anticipated, largely due to structural reforms and increased private sector participation.
The Minister discussed a global trend toward productivity-led, private sector-driven growth, emphasizing opportunities arising from AI, digital technologies, and innovation. He welcomed Google’s decision to establish a regional office in Pakistan, positioning the country as a potential hub for technology exports, and stressed the need to equip youth with digital and technical skills to capitalize on emerging sectors such as AI, blockchain, and coding.
On the domestic front, Aurangzeb highlighted that Pakistan’s macroeconomic stability has been externally validated, citing improved ratings from major international agencies and the successful completion of the IMF’s second program review. Encouraging indicators include a 14% increase in corporate profitability in the first nine months of 2025 and a rise in business confidence, with 73% of CEOs in the OICCI survey now considering Pakistan a viable investment destination, up from 61% previously.
The Minister identified priority sectors poised for private sector-led trade and investment, including minerals, IT, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and the blue economy. He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to structural reforms already underway, such as energy sector improvements, SOE reforms, privatization initiatives, pension system upgrades, and enhanced debt management.
Aurangzeb detailed the government’s digital initiatives, including AI-based monitoring and invoicing systems to reduce tax leakages, the addition of 900,000 new tax filers, and recognition of Pakistan’s reform efforts by the World Bank. He also highlighted ongoing privatization efforts, including the acquisition of a local bank by a UAE conglomerate and continued work on transactions involving PIA and power distribution companies.
Addressing broader socio-economic priorities, the Finance Minister stressed the need to address population growth, child stunting, learning poverty, and climate change. He urged leveraging $2 billion in climate financing under the World Bank’s Country Partnership Framework to advance sustainable development.
Concluding his remarks, Senator Aurangzeb reaffirmed the government’s resolve to maintain reforms, strengthen economic resilience, and advance a forward-looking agenda aimed at long-term sustainability, human development, and inclusive growth.
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