PSX, Finance Ministry outline 2026 Public Debt strategy

January 13, 2026 (MLN): The government outlined its roadmap and key initiatives for 2026 on public debt management, highlighting strategies for both domestic and external liabilities and ongoing reforms to strengthen transparency and market efficiency.

The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), in partnership with the Debt Management Office of the Ministry of Finance, hosted a high-level session on Public Debt at the Dr. Shamshad Akhtar Auditorium.

The event brought together senior representatives from commercial banks, brokerage firms, asset management companies, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP),Central Depository Company (CDC), National Clearing Company of Pakistan Limited (NCCPL).

As well as industry bodies including the Pakistan Stock Brokers Association (PSBA), Mutual Funds Association of Pakistan (MUFAP), and Fund Managers Association of Pakistan (FMAP).

The gathering provided a platform for in-depth discussions on debt management practices and capital market reforms.

The forum featured detailed presentations by leading figures, including PSX Chief Executive Officer Farrukh H. Sabzwari, Adviser to the Finance Minister Khurram Schehzad, Adviser on Debt Management Omar M. Khan, and Director Domestic Debt at the Ministry of Finance Khaliq Uz Zaman.

The government’s roadmap for 2026 was presented, offering comprehensive insights into public debt management policies and the broader approach toward managing both domestic and external liabilities, as reported by APP.

The discussion highlighted improvements in Pakistan’s macroeconomic environment that support effective debt management, alongside a review of progress made in public debt issuance during 2025, supported by key performance indicators.

The session also examined reforms undertaken in Shariah-compliant debt instruments, including enhancements in issuance mechanisms and secondary market trading at PSX, with participants reviewing trends in traded volumes and market participation.

An interactive question-and-answer segment concluded the session, enabling participants to share feedback and exchange views on further strengthening debt markets.

Adviser to the Finance Minister Khurram Schehzad emphasized that Pakistan’s debt management framework is centered on transparency and long-term sustainability.

He noted that in 2026, the government will continue prioritizing market reforms and ensuring efficient, transparent debt auctions to bolster investor confidence and maintain macroeconomic stability.

Adviser on Debt Management Omar M. Khan stressed the need for timely execution of reforms, quoting the Finance Minister while outlining targets across key areas of internal and external debt.

He urged market participants to propose innovative ideas, particularly in the development of new Shariah-compliant instruments, to broaden the investor base.

He also acknowledged the role of improved market mechanisms in achieving efficient pricing and enhancing transparency.

PSX CEO Farrukh H. Sabzwari emphasized the importance of sustained collaboration between the Ministry of Finance, capital market infrastructure institutions, and market participants.

He noted that such coordination is essential for supporting Pakistan’s economic resilience and growth.

The event concluded with a comprehensive discussion and Q&A session.

This marked another step toward strengthening engagement between the government and financial sector stakeholders in advancing Pakistan’s debt management and capital market development.  

Copyright Mettis Link News