Islamabad: Federal Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has said that Pakistan has entered a phase of economic growth after achieving macroeconomic stability, citing major improvements driven by wide-ranging reforms.
In an interview with the US newspaper USA Today, the finance minister stated that economic reforms have restored both domestic and international confidence. He noted that Pakistan’s economy is shifting toward export-led growth rather than dependence on external borrowing.
Aurangzeb highlighted the achievement of a primary budget surplus and a current account surplus as key milestones. He said inflation has fallen sharply from 38 percent to single digits, while foreign exchange reserves have surpassed $14.5 billion. Stability in the exchange rate, he added, has helped rebuild investor confidence.
The finance minister acknowledged that the current economic growth rate of 2.7 percent is a positive sign but remains insufficient to meet the country’s long-term needs. He said reforms in taxation, the energy sector, and state-owned enterprises are ongoing to strengthen economic fundamentals.
According to Aurangzeb, IT exports have crossed $4 billion and could double within the next five years. He said privatization and tariff reforms will further enhance Pakistan’s global competitiveness. Citing the World Bank, he noted that Pakistan has the potential for an “East Asia–style moment” if reforms continue.
The finance minister emphasized the importance of women’s education and increased female participation in the labor force for sustainable development. He also identified climate change as a major challenge, stressing the need for global cooperation.
Aurangzeb pointed to investment opportunities in agriculture, minerals, and the digital economy. He said Balochistan’s Reko Diq copper and gold project has become a focal point of global interest, while sectors such as data centers, artificial intelligence, and digital services hold significant growth potential.
“Pakistan is ready for trade and investment,” the finance minister said, adding that the country’s journey from crisis to an opportunity-driven economy has begun.
The American newspaper has also published a special report highlighting Pakistan’s economic prospects and reform agenda.
