PM orders timely completion of privatization programme

August 04, 2026 (MLN): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the authorities concerned to complete all stages of the privatization programme within stipulated timelines.

He further instructed that the transaction structure for Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited  be designed to preserve the bank's core mandate of supporting the agricultural sector even after privatization, with continued focus on extending credit and financial resources to small and medium-sized farmers.

He said ensuring farmers' access to financing is essential for raising per-acre crop yields, and that agricultural development remains fundamental to Pakistan's economic growth and food security.

The Prime Minister gave these directions while chairing a meeting in Islamabad on Monday to review progress on the privatization of state-owned enterprises, where he directed the relevant ministries and institutions to coordinate closely to ensure timely completion of every stage of the process, said a press release issued.

The meeting was briefed that 27 state-owned enterprises have been placed on the privatization agenda across three phases of the programme.

Officials informed the Prime Minister that the financial closing process for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and First Women Bank has been completed, with PIA's first financial closing and transfer of management control finalized on 29 June this year.

Progress on the privatization of the Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO), Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO), and Gujranwala Electric Power Company (GEPCO) was also reviewed.

The meeting was told that Expressions of Interest have already been invited for all three companies, with document submission deadlines set at 7 August for FESCO, 21 August for GEPCO, and 7 September for IESCO. Several international companies are said to have shown interest, with investor roadshows currently underway.

On Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited, officials said the transaction structure is being finalized with particular emphasis on safeguarding the bank's core agricultural lending mandate.

The Prime Minister was also briefed on progress regarding the privatization of Islamabad International Airport, Jinnah International Airport Karachi, and Allama Iqbal International Airport Lahore.

Concluding the meeting, Shehbaz Sharif directed the authorities concerned to continuously monitor all ongoing privatization initiatives and ensure the timely achievement of agreed targets.

Copyright Mettis Link News