Pakistan targets increased local and foreign investment in key sectors, highlights progress at WEF 2026

Pakistan is poised to attract increased investment from both local and foreign sources in key sectors such as agriculture, information technology, pharmaceuticals, minerals, and mining, as the country continues its path toward sustainable economic growth. Major projects like Reko Diq are being cited as early examples, with expectations of further inflows in the near future.

Federal Minister for Finance, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, shared these perspectives while speaking on the sidelines of the ongoing World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos during an interview aired by PTV News. He noted that the WEF provides an important global platform that brings together leading corporate chairpersons, private sector representatives, and government officials. Pakistan is leveraging this platform to present its economic narrative and future roadmap to international investors.

Senator Aurangzeb emphasized that Pakistan is focusing on both established economic sectors and emerging ones, including artificial intelligence, technology, and minerals and mining. He highlighted that the Prime Minister is engaging in roundtable discussions with investors to demonstrate that Pakistan is open for business, past economic challenges have been addressed, and the country is ready for growth and development.

The finance minister described the Prime Minister’s participation at the forum as a milestone, allowing direct engagement with top global companies and the international business community. This engagement, he said, is critical for building investor confidence and signaling Pakistan’s readiness to attract high-value investment.

On the topic of privatization, Senator Aurangzeb pointed to meaningful progress, particularly with Pakistan International Airlines (PIA). He noted that early interest from local investors has helped build confidence and paved the way for attracting foreign investors. Two major conglomerates have submitted bids of around $1 billion each, sending a strong signal to global markets about Pakistan’s investment potential.

He further emphasized that increasing participation by local investors demonstrates growing confidence in Pakistan’s economy and sends a clear message to the international community that the country is moving forward. This combination of local and foreign investment, along with strategic engagement at platforms like the WEF, is expected to accelerate Pakistan’s economic development and sectoral growth across multiple industries.

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