KARACHI, (TDI): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday emphasized the need for export-led economic growth during a daylong visit to Karachi, where he addressed the business community at the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) and sought actionable suggestions to bolster the country’s economy.
Pakistan’s economy has faced persistent challenges, including balance of payments issues, dwindling foreign exchange reserves, and a weakening rupee, which have necessitated reliance on external financing from friendly nations and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
In response, the government aims to pivot towards a more sustainable economic model by improving tax collection and expanding export capacity.
The PSX, recently recognized as the second-best performing global stock market of 2024 with a 56% surge in its benchmark KSE-100 Index, has been hailed as a symbol of rising investor confidence and successful fiscal reforms.
Prime Minister Sharif highlighted these achievements while urging business leaders to contribute their expertise toward economic revitalization.
“How do we actualize export-led growth? I need tangible proposals,” he stated during his address at the PSX. “I’m ready to listen and work with you to leverage your expertise and achievements for Pakistan’s progress.”
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The prime minister’s visit also included the inauguration of the Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) new Faceless Customs Assessment System at the Karachi Port Trust (KPT).
Launched as a pilot project last month, this automated system aims to enhance transparency and efficiency by reducing human interaction in customs clearance processes.
Sharif underscored the importance of modernizing port facilities to position Pakistan as a regional transit trade hub.
The government is actively inviting landlocked Central Asian countries to utilize Pakistan’s ports for global sea lane access, strengthening regional trade connectivity.
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Additionally, the prime minister is set to attend the launch of the “Manual of Clinical Practice Guidelines” at Aga Khan University, a key initiative aimed at standardizing medical practices and improving health care delivery nationwide.
This event marks a significant step forward for Pakistan’s health care sector.
The visit reflects Sharif’s broader strategy to attract investment, modernize infrastructure, and drive long-term economic growth while addressing immediate fiscal challenges
