Pakistan Finance Minister expects growth above 4 percent with privatization push
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb told Reuters in Bangkok on Monday that Pakistan aims for over 4 percent economic growth this fiscal year while seeking more than $1 billion from selling five to six state entities.
Economic outlook remains positive
The government expects the economy to grow despite high oil prices and regional instability. Critical sectors like agriculture are holding up well while fuel supplies remain adequate without shortages. The nation relies on external financing to manage debt repayments and bolster foreign exchange reserves.
Privatization targets revenue goals
Officials plan to privatize five to six entities to raise upwards of $1 billion for the state budget. This initiative follows a period of severe turmoil exacerbated by the pandemic and supported by an IMF loan program signed in 2024. The Extended Fund Facility includes tough measures such as raising tax revenue on farm income.
Inflation monitoring continues closely
The finance minister stated that inflation is being watched carefully due to its impact on commodity prices. Pakistan remains vulnerable to a prolonged Middle East conflict given its dependence on Gulf energy imports and financing support. The country successfully avoided fuel shortages while maintaining adequate quantities for the market.
All 2 outlets report consistently
No differences in figures, names or dates across these reports.
- Business Recorder
- Dawn
Reported by
2 independent outlets. Headlines as published. Links open the original report.