Export-led growth, reforms key to Pakistan’s economic transformation

January 22, 2026 (MLN): Export-led growth, productivity enhancement, and investor-friendly reforms are essential for Pakistan’s sustainable economic transformation, with stronger alignment between policy, capital, industry, and institutions needed to achieve long-term national development.

These views were expressed by Federal Minister for Board of Investment Mr. Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh while addressing the 8th Pakistan Leadership Conversation organized by ACCA, where he spoke as chief guest on Pakistan’s path towards a trillion-dollar economy.

Drawing lessons from China’s development journey, the minister said China’s emphasis on value-added production and exports enabled it to become a global economic powerhouse.

He added that Pakistan can follow a similar path by upgrading its industrial base, improving quality standards, and moving up the global value chain, according to a press release issued.

Mr. Sheikh stressed that future-ready and skilled human capital is central to sustainable growth, noting that productivity not just headline GDP growth should guide economic policymaking.

He touched on technology adoption, stronger managerial capacity, and formalization of small and medium enterprises as key drivers of competitiveness.

Highlighting the importance of digital transformation, he said digital technologies, artificial intelligence, and fintech can help Pakistan leapfrog economically if scaled beyond pilot initiatives to nationwide platforms.

Referring to market sentiment, the minister said improving stock market performance reflects rising investor confidence and growing trust in Pakistan’s economic direction.

Reaffirming Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s vision, he said the government is implementing investor-friendly reforms to improve ease of doing business and ensure regulatory predictability.

He informed participants that Special Economic Zones offer a 10-year income tax exemption, while around 6,000 acres of land near Port Qasim are available for investment.

He added that the Business Facilitation Center is providing one-window facilitation to both domestic and foreign investors.

Concluding his remarks, Mr. Sheikh reiterated that the Board of Investment remains committed to facilitating investors and positioning Pakistan as a competitive, reliable, and future-ready investment destination. 

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