Govt targets $100bn exports by 2035 to drive $1tr economy

October 07, 2026 (MLN): Pakistan needs to raise exports to $100 billion by 2035 to achieve greater economic self-reliance and reach the vision of a $1 trillion economy, with the real estate and construction sectors expected to play a key role in this push.

Pakistan faces an annual housing shortfall of about 450,000 homes, with demand estimated at 700,000 units against a supply of 250,000 units. The urban population rose from about 76 million in 2017 to 94 million in 2023.

The proposed housing, construction and real estate reform framework targets 300,000–400,000 housing units annually under the House Ownership Plan for Everyone. It also aims to raise mortgage finance from below 0.5% of GDP to 5% by 2035.

The framework envisages digitizing land records, permits, valuations and transfers by FY2029. It also proposes one-window construction approvals, incentives linked to verified construction milestones, and secure escrow payments for property transactions.

Construction supports 72 allied industries and accounts for about 9.5% of national employment. Built-up areas grew by 104% in Islamabad, 59% in Lahore, 43% in Karachi, 44% in Peshawar and 72% in Quetta between 2005 and 2022.

The Planning Minister stressed the need for vertical development to make better use of limited land and protect agricultural land from unchecked horizontal expansion.

He also called for modernizing construction practices through new technologies and more efficient building methods.

He said the private sector must become the engine of growth and that the construction sector should be developed as a source of exports, investment and foreign exchange earnings, not only for domestic needs.

He added that Pakistani construction companies must build a strong international presence, noting that Pakistani workers have already demonstrated their capabilities in the Middle East.

The Minister also said continuity of policies and political stability are essential for sustainable economic development.

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